DA files murder charges in 911 call death

Denver’s district attorney says he has filed murder charges against a man accused of killing his wife while she was making a 911 call.

In a brief statement Friday, District Attorney Mitch Morrissey said 47-year-old Richard Kirk was charged with one count of first-degree murder in Monday’s shooting death of 44-year-old Kristine Ann Kirk.

Denver police say the man ate marijuana-infused candy before the attack, and they are investigating if that influenced his behavior. Kristine Kirk told dispatchers her husband may have also taken prescription pain pills

Police also are investigating whether officers responded quickly enough to pleas for help from the woman, who was shot to death 12 minutes into the 911 call.

Officials said Thursday that a dispatcher has been placed on paid leave during the investigation.