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Sheriff: Longtime NC firefighter shot and killed by his wife

A North Carolina firefighter of 21 years was shot and killed by his wife on Saturday, according to the Randolph County Sheriff's Office.

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Heather Auman was arrested and charged with first-degree murder
By
WXII Web Staff / WRAL
SEAGROVE, N.C. — A North Carolina firefighter of 21 years was shot and killed by his wife on Saturday, according to the Randolph County Sheriff's Office.

Heather Hicks Auman, 37, was arrested on Wednesday and charged with first-degree murder.

Someone called 911 and reported a "self-inflicted" gunshot wound, according to the sheriff's office.

Mishael "MJ" James Auman was found suffering from a gunshot wound when deputies arrived. He later died at a local hospital.

According to a statement posted on Facebook by the Randolph County Fire Marshal Erik Beard on the behalf of the Seagrove Rural Volunteer Fire Department, MJ Auman had "strong ties" to the local community.

"This is a devastating blow to the fire service, in which MJ had very strong ties to, especially Randolph County. The thoughts, prayers, and condolences have not gone unnoticed," Beard said in a Facebook post. "We are forever grateful for everyone who has reached out during this difficult time. The continued thoughts and prayers are appreciated."

Heather Auman was denied bond and detained at the Randolph County Detention Center.

Her court date is set for July 1.