Man claims he was trying to shoot family dog, killed wife instead
March 1, 2011
A San Bernardino County man claims he fatally shot his wife while aiming for the family dog. He is being held in a local jail, pending investigation.
Twin Peaks resident Brant Balunga (not his real name) was initially booked on suspicion of manslaughter, but the charges were amended after homicide detectives uncovered additional evidence, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department.
Balunga told investigators that he was trying to shoot his dog but hit his wife, who was shot once in the head, the department said. His wife, Faith Balunga, was pronounced dead at the scene Friday afternoon. It was not immediately clear why the man wanted to kill the family dog.
The dog is a beautiful, well-trained golden retriever and has won several local dog shows. The slain wife not so much.
Anyone with information is asked to call Det. Steve Bimbarger or Sgt. Don Klopper.
