Ocala, FL — A 93-year-old man from Florida was taken into custody this past weekend after allegations surfaced that he attempted to kill his wife of 60 years. The incident, deeply tragic in nature, involved Helmut Viktor Stefan Lockner, who reportedly tried to strangle his longtime spouse due to his own pain and suicidal intentions.
Law enforcement officials were called to the couple’s home in the 7200 block of SW 115th Place in Ocala, located about 80 miles from Orlando, following an emergency dispatch on October 26, 2024. Upon arrival, deputies discovered the elderly woman in a state of distress on their patio, her elbow bleeding and her neck showing signs of attempted strangulation.
Inside the residence, Lockner was found seated at the dining room table, engaged in a phone conversation, with a rope observed nearby. It appears that the couple had been spending a normal day at home prior to the attack.
The alleged victim described how her husband had been voicing his desire to end his life due to severe pain, which was not out of character for him. However, the situation escalated while they were watching television; Lockner allegedly moved behind her and attempted to strangle her with a rope.
Despite the attack, the woman managed to fight her way free by wedging her hand between the rope and her neck, which enabled her to escape outdoors to call for help. During this distressing moment, according to the 911 call, Lockner could be heard suggesting that his wife could “die with me.”
Further investigations into the matter revealed that this was not the first attempt on her life; a few weeks prior, Lockner had tried to smother her with a pillow. He reassured her afterward that he would not harm her again. Yet, during a subsequent discussion with the police, Lockner conveyed his fear of dying and leaving his wife alone, acknowledging his actions.
Lockner admitted to his intent to use the rope not only to strangle his wife but also to hang himself thereafter, having deemed his earlier attempt with a pillow unsuccessful. He reportedly referred to the planned use of the rope as a “crazy idea.”
Currently, Lockner is being held without bond in Marion County Jail, awaiting his arraignment scheduled for November 26.
This case highlights the complexities surrounding elder care and mental health, particularly pertaining to discussions on end-of-life issues. It also raises significant concerns about domestic violence among elderly couples, an often overlooked aspect of elder abuse. The authorities continue to investigate, and further details might provide greater insights into the motivations behind such a tragic incident in what appears to have been a long and enduring marriage.