Man murders his girlfriend with a crossbow

ELMA, NY – A man from Elma in Western New York faces accusations of callously murdering his girlfriend using a crossbow. The Erie County District Attorney’s Office said 61-year-old Frank J. Litterio allegedly shot 62-year-old Jill Harris multiple times with the weapon on December 13.

Jill Harris reportedly sustained three arrows during the attack, with one arrow each striking her face, abdomen, and chest. The Erie County Undersheriff Bill Cooley highlighted the brutal nature of the murder during a recent press conference. Considering the process of reloading a crossbow for every shot makes this crime particularly horrifying, according to Cooley.

After allegedly killing his girlfriend, Litterio attempted suicide. He inflicted wounds on himself that included a slashed neck, several puncture wounds to his chest, and injuries to one of his wrists. He is currently in the hospital, getting medical treatment for his self-inflicted wounds.

Officials arranged Litterio’s arraignment at the hospital on second-degree murder charges. He remains in custody without bail until his upcoming hearing set for January 29, 2024. If found guilty, Litterio could face a penalty of 25 years to life in prison.

This incident follows another recent case in upstate New York involving a crossbow. In the previous case, a man was accused of murdering his newborn baby and injuring his wife using the weapon.