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An 82-year-old woman described by friends as “the best person” sun cityShe is accused of murdering her husband inside a coastal area South Carolina Nursing Home – Investigators believe the shooting was planned.
Harriet Kay Recker, 82, shot and killed her husband, Dennis Recker, 81, at Preston Health Center on Hilton Head Island on September 12, according to the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office. He is charged with murder and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime.
Investigators say notes found in her purse, at her home, and their review along with interviews and financial documents sent to a neighbor show that the shooting was premeditated.
According to testimony given in court, just a day before the shooting, Dennis Reker was hospitalized due to health problems that required extra care. WTOC,
A neighbor, who had escorted the couple to the facility, left the room for a moment when a loud noise was heard. Police said they ran back and found Harriet Recker holding a gun and her husband shot in the chest.
Despite life-saving efforts, Dennis Recker died of his injuries. A witness told investigators that before he died, Dennis appeared shocked and said, “He shot me.”
Recker reportedly told investigators: “He was a good man,” and described the incident as “a tragic situation.”
But during the investigation, authorities reportedly found a note in her purse about her declining health and emotional struggles. WTOC reported that a similar note was later found with financial papers at his home, and another version was sent to his neighbor.
Part of the note, which was read in court, said: “For all of you, this is too much for me. I wish I could have done this with our wonderful family, so many good friends. Our lives can’t go on without someone, and that person can’t be me, because I’m not strong or smart enough to do it all.”
Recker was booked into the Beaufort County Jail the same day and is being held without bond.
Family members told deputies they never knew Recker owned a gun or kept a gun. Others who knew the couple were stunned by the news.
Ted Dwemoh, who provided pest control services to the couple sun city Home described Recker as “the nicest guy in Sun City.”
“When I saw her picture, I was shocked, it just didn’t look like this woman did what they say she did,” Dwemoh said.
“She will try to help you with everything,” he said. “When you went to her house to do pest control, she would walk with you and talk to you, give you snacks and water. She’s the nicest person in Sun City.”
Investigation is ongoing.