South Jersey Man Who Killed Wife Found Dead 1 Week Later: Prosecutor

FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP, NJ — A South Jersey man fatally shot his wife, officials said. One week later, he was discovered in a vehicle with a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to the Gloucester County Prosecutor's Office (GCPO).

Authorities found Laurence D. Conner, of Franklin Township, inside the vehicle last Friday in Vineland. Two days prior, he was charged with homicide on a warrant for the death of Karen Conner.

Just before 5:30 p.m. Nov. 3, Franklin Township officers reported to their Weymouth Road home for an open 911 call. Karen Conner, 62, had died from a single gunshot wound, the GCPO said.

Laurence D. Conner, 67, was at the scene, according to prosecutors.

An investigation immediately commenced. The next day, County Medical Examiner Dr. Gerald Feign determined that Karen died from a single gunshot wound to the head, and the manner of death was homicide.

Laurence D. Conner was charged on a warrant last Wednesday with homicide and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose. Wide-ranging efforts to find Conner began without delay, the GCPO said.

Since discovering his body, authorities ruled Laurence's death a suicide.

The investigation remains ongoing. Any witnesses with information can contact GCPO Det. Jordan Plitt at 856-384-5583 or Det. Allison Schnapp of the Franklin Township Police Department at 856-694-1415. Information can be emailed to the GCPO at tips@co.gloucester.nj.us.