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Husband dies in Richland County murder-suicide

Posted at 4:13 PM, Dec 19, 2015
and last updated 2015-12-21 11:09:04-05

A man who allegedly murdered his wife and then shot himself at a Richland County rehabilitation center has died.

The man, identified as 77-year-old George Johnston, died just after 9 p.m. Saturday at Ohio State University Hospital. 

Around 11:45 a.m. Saturday, a nurse found both Johnston and his wife, 76-year-old Carol Johnston, with gunshot wounds inside Carol's room. 

Carol, who had been staying in the rehabilitation center for about six to eight weeks, was pronounced dead at the scene. 

Shelby police said George had previously told employees that his insurance was running out and he did not believe he would be able to care for his wife if she were to be released. 

Police believe that George, using a .22-caliber revolver, shot his wife once in the head and then sat down and shot himself.

He left detailed notes in Carol's room and at their home, describing what he planned to do, according to police. 

Investigators believe Carol and George agreed on the arrangement before the shooting. There was no sign of a struggle and no residents reported hearing any shots fired.

Shelby police continue to investigate. An autopsy is scheduled for Carol with the Richland County Coroner's Office. 

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