RETIRED POLICE OFFICER, 79, WHO SHOT TERMINALLY ILL WIFE AND SURVIVED, HANDED HOSPITAL ORDER
John McDonald Smith, aged 79, a retired police officer and ex-soldier, shot and killed his wife Carol, aged 76, at their home in Bexhill, East Sussex.The court learned that Smith was highly devoted to his wife, caring for her during her final days after she was discharged from hospice care.
On February 5, 2021, their son Andrew visited and witnessed his mother in extreme pain, with her face turning blue.
Smith showed his son a revolver, and in the early hours of February 6, he shot his wife before turning the weapon on himself.
He survived the attack with a bullet lodged in his head.
At Lewes Crown Court, Smith admitted to manslaughter due to diminished responsibility and to firearm possession.
He was committed to a secure hospital under a hospital order, and Judge Christine Laing QC stated that he would be undergoing psychiatric assessment.
The court acknowledged Smith’s distinguished military and police service, stressing the need to respect the sanctity of life even in the context of his emotional distress.
The judge said, ‘She was your wife for more than half your life.
She had limited mobility and was in considerable pain.
You ended her life by placing a gun in her mouth and pulling the trigger.’ Smith told the court that he loved his wife and could not imagine life without her, sending written messages to his children saying, ‘I do not wish to live without your mum.’ It was further revealed that Smith had cared for his wife over many years and was increasingly concerned about his mental health as her condition worsened.
Family testimonies described how he felt he could not endure life without her and wanted to prevent her suffering.
The judge noted, ‘Today, you will be taken back to hospital where medical professionals will determine your treatment and any potential release,’ adding that Smith, who served in the Far East and Surrey Police, expressed remorse and was subsequently sectioned under the Mental Health Act after the incident.
