MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — The trial of a Cheat Lake resident accused of killing his wife has been continued to April 28 in Monongalia County Circuit Court.
Rick Allen Cordes has been charged with first degree murder in connection with the April 19, 2024 shooting at their Falling Water Lane home. Detectives from the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Department learned Cordes and his wife, Jennifer Haribar had been seen at at least two Cheat Lake bars fighting with Cordes being the instigator.
Cordes called 911 on the night of the shooting and remained on scene until police arrived. He provided multiple statements to 911 dispatchers, first responders and detectives that changed several times during the investigation.
Cordes admitted there was a struggle and he had contact with the grip of the weapon. He told investigators it was possible that either his or both of their fingers pulled the trigger.
An autopsy determined Haribar died of a single gunshot wound to the back of the head.
Cordes remains in custody at North Central Regional Jail without bond.