Louisville man charged in alleged strangulation at senior center

Bert Morris, 92, was arrested Wednesday on charges of attempted murder and first-degree strangulation following an incident at a Louisville senior living center. Police say Morris pinned a plastic bag over his wife’s face while holding her nose. The arrest citation describes the bag sealing around her mouth and tightening around her head during the event.

Morris stated during his arrest that his wife needed to die. His wife was transported to a local hospital where she was unconscious. A separate nurse intervened to separate the couple after Morris’ designated caretaker, Terrence Gabie, 41, failed to assist the victim.

Court documents indicate Gabie recorded a 71-second video of the incident. He was arrested Wednesday and faces charges of knowingly abusing or neglecting an adult. Gabie was the victim’s designated caretaker during her stay at the assisted living facility.

Morris appeared in court Thursday and pleaded not guilty. His bond was reduced from $250,000 to $150,000. He is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on Nov. 6.

Gabie was also arraigned Thursday. He pleaded not guilty and posted a $10,000 personal recognizance bond. His preliminary hearing is also set for Nov. 6. Louisville Metro Police responded to the facility after receiving a report of a domestic violence incident.