Melissa Sue (Garrelts) Long, 44, was fatally shot at her home in Alpaugh, California on January 29, 2024. Her husband, 56-year-old Robert Long, transported her to a hospital in Delano where she died; he was arrested at the hospital on suspicion of murder. The Tulare County Sheriff’s Office had responded to at least ten prior domestic disturbance calls at the Long residence, and in July 2022 Robert was arrested after chasing Melissa with a knife.

Melissa reportedly urged prosecutors to drop those charges, and Robert later pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor domestic violence count, receiving three years probation and enrollment in a 52-week counseling program; that resolution occurred a week before Melissa’s death. After the shooting Robert was charged with murder, personal and intentional discharge of a firearm causing death, and a separate count of making criminal threats that same day. Melissa’s family described her as loving and fierce, someone who enjoyed gardening, diamond art, and caring for her Boston Terriers; they asked memorials be given to Ascend Domestic Advocacy.

Does anyone have information about the events leading up to January 29 that could help investigators?