Watch CBS News

Police: Man Charged In Girlfriend's Death Initially Claimed She Shot Herself

HEMPFIELD TOWNSHIP (KDKA) – A man is facing homicide charges after allegedly shooting his girlfriend of 12 years in the head Sunday night.

According to police, the incident happened on Waycross Drive in Hempfield Township.

State Police have arrested 53-year-old Allen Trent in connection with 61-year-old Frances Smith's death.

Trent told police that he and Smith had been drinking at the South Greensburg Hunt Club and the Midway St. Clair Fireman's Club earlier in the day. They returned home around 7:30 p.m.

Initially, Trent told police Smith had made a sandwich and poked and scratched his torso. She then went to the bedroom to go to sleep.

Trent said he started drinking homemade wine in the living room when he heard a gunshot come from the bedroom. When he went in, he saw Smith bleeding from the head.

That's when he called 911 and said his girlfriend shot herself.

frances-smith
(Photo Courtesy of Frances Smith's Family)

However, police explained that based on their evidence, there were some inconsistencies with his story.

At that time, Trent told police he got a .44-caliber Dan Wessen revolver when Smith went to sleep. He claimed he approached Smith in bed and the following conversation took place:

Smith: "What are you doing with that?"

Trent: "Nothing. Why?"

Smith: "Put that thing away."

At that point, Trent claims Smith grabbed his arm and gouged his skin.

"The gun went off, it happened so fast," Trent told police.

Smith was pronounced dead at the scene from a single gunshot wound to the head.

Rene Asken, who bartends at the Midway-St Clair VFD Club, said she used to see the couple every weekend.

"I can't believe it, I honestly can't," she said.

Asken was especially close to Frances Smith.

"Very loving. This Christmas she game me a Christmas gift. They were laid off, I didn't expect it," she said.

Smith's family released a statement reading: Our family is deeply shocked at this tragic news. Frannie was the youngest of 11 siblings. Known for her quick sense of humor, she was outgoing and lived life to the fullest. She will be sadly missed by her family and friends. 

Stay With KDKA.com For More Details

Join The Conversation On The KDKA Facebook Page
Stay Up To Date, Follow KDKA On Twitter

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.