71-year-old man tells cops he smothered his wife to death with pillow, officials say

A 70-year-old grandmother was smothered to death with a pillow, leading to a murder charge brought against her husband, Michigan officials say.

James Michael Hentges, 71, called 911 after the incident , which happened in the couple’s Warren home Saturday, July 13, Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido said in a July 16 news release.

Lucido said the husband attempted to harm himself but failed, leading him to call 911.

While speaking to a dispatcher, Hentges said he had killed his wife , Cheryl Ann Hentges, several hours prior, according to WWJ.

Police said James Hentges was arrested without incident at the home, WJBK reported. He was medically cleared from a hospital, then he admitted to officers that he had killed his wife, according to the station.

He was charged with first-degree pre-meditated murder and faces life in prison without parole if he is found guilty, officials say. The prosecutor said the husband was denied bail during his July 16 arraignment.

“This tragic incident has left a family shattered and a community in mourning,” Lucido said in the news release. “Our hearts go out to the victim’s loved ones as we pursue justice for this unimaginable act.”

The motive for the killing is unclear.

Cheryl Hentges had two daughters and two granddaughters, according to an obituary . She was described as a “loving wife, mother and grandmother” who “loved spending time with close family members.”

“She was an amazing cook and baker, an excellent driver, an avid reader and a talented gardener,” the obituary said. “Her wit and humor filled any room.”

Warren is about a 20-mile drive north from Detroit.

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