CLINTON TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WXYZ) — October is National Domestic Violence Awareness month.
In one week, Macomb County Prosecutor Eric J. Smith is dealing with three domestic violence cases, including the murder of a woman in Clinton Township.
We are now learning police were called to a home an hour before that fatal shooting.
Macomb County prosecutors have charged 26-year-old Kyle Wonsowicz of Clinton Township with second degree murder in the death of his wife, 26-year-old Nicole Larocca.
Wonsowicz has also been charged with a Felony Firearm charge.
Police say Larocca was shot on September 28 and died less than 24 hours later.
Wonsowicz was arraigned on the charges in 41 B District Court in Clinton Township on Tuesday. He was denied bond.
Larocca’s friend Melissa Werbinski spoke to 7 Action News Reporter Syma Chowdhry.
Werbinski wants to hold on to the wonderful memories, as she and others mourn the loss of a good friend.
“She was the type of girl that could light up a room,” Werbinksi explained. “She was a very sweet, loving, caring, goofy person and she always had a smile on her face.”
Wonsowicz was denied bond after being accused of fatally shooting his wife in the face over the weekend at his relative’s home in Clinton Township.
An hour before the murder, a neighbor called police saying they heard a gunshot and arguing from the home. When police arrived, they said there was no sign of trouble.
Prosecutor Smith said, “Both were in good spirits, there was no arguing going on. They were having a barbecue as a matter of fact and invited the officers to join them.”
The officers then privately talked to Larocca to make sure she was safe.
“And our victim said, no everything is fine,” he added.
An hour later, another neighbor called after hearing several gunshots and that’s when police found the victim shot but still alive. She died in the hospital.
Law enforcement officials say there was no record of domestic violence issues between the couple.
The suspect is now facing second degree murder and felony firearm charges.
With October being National Domestic Violence Awareness month, Prosecutor Smith wants victims to speak up and ask for help.
“We come across these situations all the time where victims are outwardly saying they are okay that there is no problem even to police officers they are saying there is no problem.”
Werbinksi added, “I wish that I could say one last thing to her, tell her that I love her and that I’m sorry that this happened.”
The victim’s family plans to hold a candlelight vigil Thursday night. Larocca’s funeral is scheduled for Friday.
Those living in unsafe conditions can get help through Macomb County Turning Point. Their 24-hour crisis line can be reached at 586-463-6990.
You can also contact the National Domestic Violence hotline at 800-799-7233.
