Authorities allege the evidence contradicts the suspect’s explanation.
HUNTERSVILLE, N.C. — Investigators in North Carolina say a woman’s online search history raised questions about her claim that her husband’s fatal shooting happened during an accidental struggle.
Authorities arrested Susan “Michelle” Perry, 54, after the death of her husband, Robert “Joe” Perry, 58, inside their Huntersville home. Officers responding to the residence found the victim in his office with a gunshot wound to the chest while the suspect was nearby in the home, according to investigators. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Police said the suspect initially told them she heard a noise that sounded like her husband falling. She reported running to the office and finding him on the floor surrounded by blood before contacting emergency services.
Detectives began examining the home as a potential crime scene and collected evidence including a firearm and blood patterns inside the room. Investigators said the physical evidence prompted them to analyze additional information, including the suspect’s digital devices.
Authorities later reported discovering internet searches on Perry’s phone that referenced firearm targeting terminology. Among them were searches involving the phrase “center mass shots,” which investigators said appeared to relate to striking a target in the chest area. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
According to police, those searches were made before the shooting occurred. Detectives said the discovery raised questions about whether the death was accidental.
During subsequent interviews, Perry allegedly told investigators the couple had argued about divorce. She claimed the firearm discharged while the two struggled over it, resulting in the fatal wound. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Authorities said investigators compared her statements with the physical evidence at the scene and information collected during the investigation.
Based on the findings, police obtained a warrant charging Perry with first-degree murder. She was booked into the Mecklenburg County Jail as the case moved toward court proceedings.
The case will now move through the court system, where prosecutors are expected to present evidence including forensic analysis and digital records.
Author note: Last updated March 6, 2026.