At a Glance
- Michael Abatti, 63, arrested for the shooting death of his estranged wife in Arizona.
- Investigation points to a divorce dispute over spousal support and financial strain.
- Autopsy report confirms a gunshot wound to the head; motive remains unclear.
- Why it matters: The case highlights how domestic financial conflicts can lead to violent outcomes.
Investigators in Arizona have charged Michael Abatti with the murder of his estranged wife, Kerri Ann Abatti, 59, after a shooting at their vacation home in Pinetop. The incident, linked to an ongoing divorce and financial disagreement, raises questions about the motives behind the crime.
Investigation Details
Abatti traveled from El Centro, California, to Pinetop on Nov. 20, carried out the killing, and returned to California early the next morning, according to a news conference held Monday. Authorities declined to disclose details about the events leading up to the death, citing the investigation.
- Traveled from El Centro to Pinetop on Nov. 20.
- Returned to California early on Nov. 21.
- Autopsy report confirmed a gunshot wound to the head.
Sheriff David Clouse said:
> “Different theories will come up. The only thing that’s glaring that I think everybody already knows is there’s a divorce in place and they weren’t able to come to a resolution. But I can’t speak exactly to what the motive would be.”
Attorney Owen Roth said:
> “Our client is in his mid-60s and has significant health issues, and we continue to worry about his well-being. We ask the public to respect his privacy and constitutional rights and reiterate that this case will be decided based on the evidence by a jury.”
Autopsy report said:
> “The report said she was found unconscious on the floor near her kitchen by her nephew, who told investigators he heard a loud sound before finding her. When investigators searched the home they found a ‘circular defect’ on a window and determined ‘a gunshot likely originated from the yard outside the home.'”
Background and Financial Dispute
The couple had been married since 1992 and owned property in three states. Kerri had requested increased spousal support and additional attorney fees, while Abatti argued declining farm income.
| Item | Initial Amount | Final Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Temporary spousal support | $5,000/month | $6,400/month |
| Attorney’s fees requested | – | $100,000 |
- Abatti is from a long line of Imperial Valley farmers.
- He served on the board of the Imperial Irrigation District (2006-2010).
- Kerri was a descendant of early Latter-day Saints settlers in Pinetop.
Key Takeaways
- Michael Abatti arrested after shooting his estranged wife in Arizona.
- Divorce and financial disputes may have motivated the crime.
- Autopsy confirmed a head gunshot; motive still under investigation.
As the case moves toward trial, authorities continue to probe the link between the couple’s financial battles and the tragic shooting.
