A Northeast Philadelphia man has admitted he strangled his wife as they fought over his texts to another woman.
Christopher Murray admitted Tuesday he followed his 46-year-old wife Connie after she left for a walk and then strangled her as they argued.
Murray, 49, told investigators he killed his wife Connie after an argument. The 46-year-old mother of two was strangled in August — her body dumped in Pennypack Park.
Murray initially told the Philadelphia Daily News that her death was "devastating." He called her a beautiful woman, loving mother and fabulous friend. Prosecutors said he reported her missing last August and even took a daughter with him to search for her at area hospitals.
According to investigators, there were ongoing domestic issues between the husband and wife that culminated in the deadly argument.
Officials said Murray told police last year that he "snapped" when the argument turned physical.
Investigators said Connie left her Tolbut Street home the night of Aug. 4 to go for a walk. While she was walking, Murray allegedly followed her while driving a silver Ford Taurus. He pulled up beside her on Willets Road and the two began to argue, according to police.
"She sticks her head in the car, says something and she goes back on her walk," said Philadelphia Police Lt. Philip Riehl.
Police said Murray continued to follow her and got out of his vehicle on Holme Avenue. The husband then met his wife at a bench area at the park where another argument ensued.
Murray will serve 20 to 40 years in prison after pleading guilty to third-degree murder as their 17-year-old daughter and other relatives listened in the courtroom.
Local
Breaking news and the stories that matter to your neighborhood.
Murray said he loved his wife and wishes he could turn back time.
