Vanessa Michelle Thorson, 55, was killed in Hoodsport, Washington on April 12, 2012. Her husband, Christopher Thorson, initially told a 911 dispatcher he had shot his wife and framed it as a mercy killing, saying she suffered from severe dementia and had asked him to end her life. Investigators say his story changed during questioning; he later admitted the shooting followed a drunken argument during a week of heavy drinking. He disassembled the firearm, put it away, then smoked a cigarette and drank before calling 911.

Christopher Thorson, a longtime Department of Corrections employee, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder. His defense argued alcohol-induced delirium and diminished capacity, including claims of memory loss and lack of intent. The marriage had reportedly been under considerable stress.