PALMER TOWNSHIP, PA – A Pennsylvania man has been arrested and charged with the murder of his in-laws just hours after being served with divorce papers. Xiaomin Fei, 34, faces multiple charges, including criminal homicide and burglary, stemming from the shooting deaths of Robert and Gretchen Ackerman.
Authorities said Fei was apprehended Tuesday evening after police responded to reports of a domestic disturbance at a residence in a senior community.
Upon arrival, officers reportedly found Fei at the scene holding a handgun, which he eventually set down after verbal commands. No other injuries were reported, though Fei’s wife and two small children were present in the home.
Police found the front door open and two adults with gunshot injuries inside. Robert Ackerman died at the scene, while his wife Gretchen succumbed to her injuries en route to the hospital.
Documents revealed that a 911 call captured the chaos within the home, including cries from children and the sound of arguing men. An exchange reportedly captured during the call included Robert Ackerman pleading, “Think about what you’re doing,” to which Fei allegedly replied, “I’m not thinking.”
Fei’s wife also called 911, stating her husband attempted to harm her and their children. According to police, Fei confessed to being distressed after being served divorce papers and claimed his in-laws had prevented him from entering his own home and seeing his children.
In the hours leading up to the incident, Fei reportedly purchased a handgun, which authorities believe was used in the attack against his in-laws. The sequence of events allegedly involved Fei smashing a window to enter the house before opening fire on the couple.
Held without bond in Northampton County Prison, Fei’s next court appearance is scheduled for June 18. Further proceedings will determine the outcome of the allegations he faces as the community reels from the tragic events.