PATRICK COUNTY, Va. (rbs news now) — A Patrick Springs man was taken into custody on December 2 after shooting and killing his wife.

Authorities say they got a call at 3:51 p.m. from Bennie Lee King, of Stella Road, who told dispatchers that he had just killed his wife.

Deputies responded to the scene, where King came out of the residence armed with a handgun.

During a standoff, King pointed the weapon at his own head, stating that he “wanted to die,” according to the Patrick County Sheriff’s Office.

After negotiations, King complied with commands to drop the gun and was taken into custody without further incident.

Deputies found Alexis King, 64, deceased on the front porch of the home.

Bennie King has been charged with first-degree murder and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony.

The Virginia State Police, Patrick County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, and Patrick County Emergency Management assisted at the scene.

King is being held without bond, and the investigation remains ongoing.

Authorities ask anyone with additional information about the incident to contact the Patrick County Sheriff’s Office.

Copyright 2024 by Romero Broadcasting System, LLC. All rights reserved. This material may not be reproduced, rewritten, or redistributed.