On the evening of July 16, 2025, Patricia Marie McSperitt, a 56-year-old White woman, was found dead of gunshot wounds at the home she co-owned with her husband on West Hill Road in Lorane, about 20 miles southwest of Eugene. Lane County deputies responded to a report of a shooting and opened a homicide investigation at the rural residence.

Authorities identified her husband, 56-year-old Ralph William McSperitt, as the suspect. Multiple agencies assisted in the search; he was located in front of the Lane County Jail in downtown Eugene and arrested without incident at about 12:30 a.m. on July 17. He was charged with second-degree murder and unlawful use of a weapon and pleaded not guilty at a July 25 court appearance. His next court date was scheduled for August 25.

Anyone who knew Patricia, the couple, or who has information about the events on July 16 is asked to come forward.