Elbridge Man Dies Before Murder Trial

Judges desk in court room

Photo: Getty Images

An Elbridge man, Sherman Cottrill, who was awaiting trial for allegedly murdering his wife, has died. Cottrill, 80, was accused of shooting his wife, Donna, in the head at their home on Kingston Road in June 2023. He passed away on January 7 after being admitted to a hospital for pneumonia and a heart issue. According to Onondaga County District Attorney Bill Fitzpatrick, there is no official autopsy or cause of death yet.

During a 911 call, Cottrill admitted to shooting his wife, reportedly because she was "bothering him." The incident occurred on June 25, 2023, and Donna Cottrill, 60, died from her injuries about two weeks later at Upstate Hospital. Cottrill was initially charged with attempted murder and criminal use of a firearm.

Cottrill's trial was scheduled to begin in March 2025, but his death means the murder charge will be dropped. The Onondaga County Sheriff's Office had been investigating the case, and Cottrill had no prior history of domestic violence.

Donna Cottrill was a retired custodian from the West Genesee School District, where she was remembered for her involvement in school events and celebrations. The district has made support staff available for students affected by the news.


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