Missouri authorities have arrested a man who fled after allegedly killing his wife and dousing a house with gasoline on Sunday.
Gregory Smith III, 40, reportedly beat, stomped, and stabbed Cristina Garcia, 37, at a Hazelwood home. The couple’s two children — an infant and a boy younger than 10 — were present during the slaying and when Smith dumped gas all over the home, according to KMOV.
Hazelwood police lieutenant Timothy Burger said the boy called 911 and claimed his mother was seriously injured. The boy reportedly also identified Smith as the perpetrator.
Responding officers located the two children, who were ultimately taken to the hospital. Hours later, Smith was taken into custody and charged with first-degree murder, armed criminal action, and endangering the welfare of a child.
According to KMOV, investigators are speaking with the children’s grandparents regarding taking custody in light of Sunday’s incident.
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[Featured image: Gregory Smith III/St. Louis County Department of Justice Services]
