DOB: 05/30/1957

Case Number:  2023-1137-CF

Hamilton Pleads Guilty to Murdering his Wife, Sentenced to Life in Prison

PALATKA – During a hearing this afternoon, defendant Peter Hamilton pleaded guilty to First-Degree Murder (Firearm) and was sentenced to life in prison.

On November 1, 2023, Hamilton’s wife was getting ready to leave their Welaka home for work when he got his gun from a bedroom. While she was getting into her car, the defendant shot her once in the back.

Hamilton then called 911. The defendant told the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office that he shot his wife and she needed emergency medical attention.

First responders found the victim in the dining room and immediately began rendering aid. However, she died from her injuries at the scene.

The case was investigated by the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant State Attorney Jennifer Dunton successfully prosecuted the case for the state. The Honorable Alicia Washington presided over the case and pronounced sentence.