Minnesota Man Charged With Fatally Shooting His Wife in 2010

A Minnesota man has been charged in connection to the April 2010 shooting death of his wife.

Nicholas James Firkus, 38, is accused of fatally shooting his wife Heidi in their home, CNN reports. He is being charged with second-degree intentional murder, according to the criminal complaint. 

Firkus initially told police that one or possibly two people broke into the home. When he pulled out a shotgun, both he and his wife were shot by the burglars. Firkus suffered a minor gunshot wound to the thigh, while Heidi was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities found no evidence to suggest anyone broke into the home. 

Evidence suggests that Firkus was having financial troubles, and his wife was not aware of everything. According to the complaint, the couple left for a Hawaiian vacation the same day lenders began eviction proceedings on their home. 

“After years of tenacious work by investigators and our law enforcement partners, we are one step closer to getting justice for Heidi and the truth for everyone who loved her—especially her mother, father, and brothers,” said Saint Paul Police Chief Todd Axtell.

CNN confirmed that Firkus was released from Ramsey County Jail after posting a $1 million bond. Firkus has not yet entered a plea in the case. Firkus’Firkus’ attorney, Joseph Friedberg, declined to comment.