The wife of agricultural mogul Michael Abati was discovered unconscious on the floor of their $1.6 million mansion in Arizona, having suffered a gunshot wound to the head, as revealed by an autopsy report.
Michael Abati, an heir from Imperial Valley’s farming industry, was taken into custody earlier in the month in California, accused of murdering his estranged wife, Keri Ann Abati. The incident took place on November 20, amidst disputes regarding their divorce settlement.
According to the autopsy report, Abati’s nephew reported hearing a loud bang before he found Keri Ann injured at their hilltop home in Pinetop, Arizona.
During the investigation, authorities noted a “circular defect” in a window, suggesting that the gunshots were likely fired from outside the house.
Emergency services were alerted after a relative of Abati reported a medical situation, as officials mentioned in a press conference.
Paramedics, upon arrival, found Keri shot and she was declared dead at the hospital.
Keri Abati was reportedly living alone after separating from Michael.
Reports indicate that Michael drove from California to Pinetop, shot his wife, and then drove back 400 miles to California.
Keri had initiated divorce proceedings in California, which were still active when she passed away.
Married for 31 years, the couple had three children and lived a lavish lifestyle, owning real estate across three states. Keri had initially been awarded temporary spousal support of $5,000 monthly but sought to increase this amount to maintain her lifestyle. Additionally, she requested $100,000 in attorney fees, as stated in court documents.
Michael had increased his support to $6,400 a month but claimed in court his business faced challenges due to a tough farming period.
The sheriff of Navajo County commented on the situation, stating, “There are going to be many theories, but what’s clear is the ongoing divorce, and they haven’t reached a resolution. However, I can’t pinpoint a specific motive.”
Michael Abati is currently awaiting extradition to Arizona. His attorney, Owen Ross, asked for the public to respect his client’s privacy and constitutional rights, emphasizing that the case would be resolved based on jury evidence.
