71-year-old Warren man calls 911, says he killed his wife

A 71-year-old Warren man is facing murder charges after he allegedly killed his wife over the weekend and then called 911 to report the murder.

James Michael Hentges is accused of using a pillow to suffocate his wife, Cheryl Hentges, inside the couple's home in the 24000 block of Loretta Avenue near Stephens and Ryan on Saturday. Several hours later, he called 911 and told the dispatcher that he had killed his wife and attempted suicide by harming himself and taking pills.

Police went to Hentges's home, where he was arrested without incident. According to police, Hentges had bandages on his wrist consistent with the suicide attempt he had reported to 911. He was medically cleared at a hospital and taken to the Warren Police Department, where police say he admitted to killing his wife.

James Michael Hentges

Hentges was charged with first-degree murder and remanded to jail. He before Judge John Chmura in 37th District Court on Tuesday.

"It's such a tragedy. This is the worst possible outcome of  any domestic violence incident. This is something we don’t want to see happen," said Warren Detective Nicholas Lienemann.

Hentges has no criminal history. The motive for the alleged murder is still unknown.

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If you or a loved one is feeling distressed, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The crisis center provides free and confidential emotional support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to civilians and veterans. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-8255. Or text to 741-741

CLICK HERE for the warning signs and risk factors of suicide. Call 1-800-273-TALK for free and confidential emotional support. 

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