Deputies executed a search warrant at the home of 53-year-old Brian Ellis Hartman after relatives reported him missing. He failed to appear at the funeral of his wife Cheri, on February 20th.
“Family became suspicious when Cheri's funeral was on the 20th and Brian was not there,” said family member Barbara Baumgartner.
While serving a search warrant Tuesday, deputies found the body of Brian Ellis Hartman inside a container in the garage of the home. According to court records, the victim had suffered a gunshot wound. Deputies also found blood in various areas of the house.
Investigators have also learned that Brian Scott Hartman, the son of Brian Ellis and Cheri Hartman, called called paramedics on February 12. He said his 54-year-old mother was in urgent need of medical care. EMS arrived and Cheri Hartman was later pronounced dead.
According to an Affidavit filed in Randolph County Court Wednesday, Hartman told authorities that he was involved in a plan with his parents to shoot his father in his sleep and assist in the suicide of his cancer-stricken with an overdose of drugs.
Charges of murder and assisted suicide have now been filed against Brian Scott Hartman. He was arraigned on the charges Wednesday and is being held in the Randolph County Jail without bond.