Macomb County Man Admits To Smothering Wife To Death With Pillow: Cops

WARREN, MI — A Macomb County man is facing a murder charge after he smothered his wife to death with a pillow inside a Warren Home last Saturday, according to the Macomb County Prosecutor's Office.

James Michael Hentges, 71, of Warren, called police and told them he had killed his wife and tried to kill himself Saturday, according to police.

Officers responded to the home on the 24000 block of Loretta Avenue, near Stephens and Ryan roads and found the body of 70-year-old Cheryl Ann Hentges, according to police.

Police said she was smothered to death with a pillow.

Inside the home, officers also found Hentges, who told officers he had tried to take his own life by overdosing and cutting his wrists, according to police.

Hentges did have bandages on his wrists, according to police.

Officers arrested Hentges in connection with his wife's killing, and took him to a nearby hospital, according to police.

Hentges then openly told investigators that he killed his wife and tried to kill himself, according to police.

Hentges was charged with one count of first-degree premeditated murder. He was placed in jail without a bond. His next court date is scheduled for July 25.

If convicted on the murder charge, he faces life in prison.

"This tragic incident has left a family shattered and a community in mourning. Our hearts go out to the victim's loved ones as we pursue justice for this unimaginable act," Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido said.