RUSSELLVILLE, Ala. — A tragic domestic shooting in Russellville has left an Alabama community stunned after authorities say a 65-year-old woman fatally shot her husband inside their home following growing frustration during her recovery from major surgery. The heartbreaking incident has shaken residents as investigators continue examining the circumstances surrounding the deadly encounter.

According to law enforcement officials, deputies responded Sunday night to a residence in Russellville after Sheri Mitchell-Clutts reportedly called 911 and admitted to shooting her husband, 69-year-old Timothy Clutts. When authorities arrived at the home, they discovered Timothy Clutts deceased in a recliner with a gunshot wound to the chest. Emergency responders confirmed that he died at the scene.

Investigators said Mitchell-Clutts initially told deputies she had felt threatened earlier in the day. However, according to officials, her explanation later changed significantly during questioning. Franklin County Sheriff Shannon Oliver stated that Mitchell-Clutts allegedly admitted she had become irritated with her husband, who had reportedly been checking on her frequently after she recently underwent open-heart surgery.

Authorities say Mitchell-Clutts told investigators she retrieved a firearm because she believed her husband might come back into the room. Deputies further allege that when he did not immediately return, she went looking for him before ultimately shooting him. Sheriff Oliver described the confession as unusually direct compared to many homicide investigations authorities typically encounter.

Officials also stated that investigators reviewed prior call records connected to the residence and found no documented history of domestic violence involving the couple over several years. The tragic case has therefore left many community members shocked as friends, neighbors, and loved ones struggle to understand how a situation inside the family home escalated into deadly violence.

Sheri Mitchell-Clutts has since been charged with murder and remains held without bond pending a hearing under Alabama’s Aniah’s Law. As the investigation continues, authorities are still working to fully piece together the events leading up to the shooting. Meanwhile, the Russellville community is mourning the loss of Timothy Clutts while grappling with the painful reality of a tragedy that unfolded behind closed doors.