CLAREMORE, OK – A Claremore woman faces serious criminal charges after authorities allege she attempted to kill her husband by cutting off his oxygen supply and encouraging him to die, according to sheriff’s officials.
Deputies with the Rogers County Sheriff’s Office arrested Naomi Austin, 73, late Saturday following a 911 call from her 77-year-old husband. The man, who relies on supplemental oxygen for health reasons, reported that Austin had unplugged his machine, physically restrained him, and refused his pleas for help.
The incident unfolded at the couple’s home in Claremore, a small city located approximately 30 miles northeast of Tulsa. First responders arrived to find evidence consistent with the husband’s account. The seriousness of the report prompted deputies to open an in-depth investigation, which soon revealed a troubling pattern.
According to authorities, this is not the first time the husband has sought help under similar circumstances. Emergency crews had previously responded to a call at the home in October, when the man similarly reported that his oxygen was disconnected. Both times, he alleged that Austin was responsible.
As detectives gathered statements and reviewed records, they obtained text messages allegedly sent by Austin that conveyed animosity toward her husband. One message expressed hatred, while another reportedly stated a desire for him to “die soon.” Investigators said these communications were provided by a family realtor, who also claimed that Austin had asked about assisting in her husband’s death during a summer phone call that lasted about 15 minutes.
While in custody, Austin has denied wrongdoing and insisted her husband was confused or mentally unstable, authorities said. Nevertheless, evidence cited in the arrest affidavit pointed to a pattern of expressed hostility and intent, strengthening the case against her.
Rogers County Sheriff Scott Walton acknowledged the difficult nature of arresting an elderly woman but emphasized the decision was made in the interest of the alleged victim’s health and safety. “Given the totality of the evidence, it was necessary to act to protect him,” he said.
Austin remains held without bond at the Rogers County Detention Center and is scheduled to appear in court on November 12. She has been charged with solicitation for murder as well as abuse or exploitation by a caretaker.
The case has raised concern in the tight-knit Claremore community, where neighbors say they never expected such an incident on their quiet street. The investigation remains ongoing.