Handymen suspected in slaying of Philly couple
Authorities in Philadelphia say a retired couple were strangled by two men hired to do household chores after the wife caught one trying to steal money.
Police on Monday charged 26-year-old Terry Ballard and 19-year-old Justen Smith with murder, robbery and related offenses. It’s not clear if they have lawyers yet.
A family member found Rufus and Gladys Perry dead early Thursday morning. Homicide Capt. James Clark said the suspects were let in hours before to do odd jobs around the home.
When one man tried to steal an envelope filled with cash, 66-year-old Gladys Perry confronted him and was strangled, Clark said.
Police say 79-year-old Rufus Perry was strangled and smothered with a pillow while trying to save his wife.Clark said the suspects took $120 and a gold necklace.
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