Investigators say the suspect admitted planning to kill her husband before setting the home on fire because of financial problems.
ROWAN COUNTY, N.C. — A 58-year-old North Carolina woman has been charged with attempted first-degree murder after authorities say she admitted to slashing her husband’s throat while he slept during the early morning hours of July 1.
According to the Rowan County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a home at about 2:45 a.m. after receiving a report of a man suffering from a severe neck wound. Investigators said the victim, identified as Jerry Marlowe, was found with a large laceration extending from his neck toward his shoulder. Emergency crews transported him to a hospital, where he survived the attack despite serious injuries.
When deputies first arrived, investigators said Paula Marlowe told them her husband had awakened her and said he needed to go to the hospital because he was bleeding. Detectives later interviewed Paula Marlowe and said she admitted she was responsible for the injuries. According to the sheriff’s office, she confessed to attacking her husband while he was asleep inside their home.
Authorities allege Paula Marlowe told investigators she intended to kill her husband, set the home on fire and then take her own life because of ongoing financial difficulties. Investigators said she claimed she became frightened before carrying out the remainder of the alleged plan. Officials have not released additional details about what prompted the attack or how long the alleged plan had been considered.
The Rowan County Sheriff’s Office said Jerry Marlowe survived the assault and remains the victim in the ongoing criminal case. Authorities have not released updated information regarding his medical condition or whether he remains hospitalized. No other injuries were reported during the incident, and investigators said there was no fire at the residence.
Paula Marlowe was arrested and booked into custody on one count of attempted first-degree murder. Court records indicate the case will proceed through the North Carolina judicial system. Prosecutors are expected to review the evidence gathered by investigators, including statements made during interviews and physical evidence collected from the home.
Investigators continue processing evidence and have not indicated whether additional charges could be filed. Authorities have also not disclosed whether Paula Marlowe has retained an attorney or entered a plea. As with all criminal cases, the allegations remain subject to court proceedings, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Domestic violence experts have long noted that financial strain can contribute to household conflict, though investigators have not suggested that financial problems alone caused the alleged attack. Court proceedings are expected to determine what evidence will ultimately be presented before a jury if the case moves to trial.
As of Friday, Paula Marlowe remains charged with attempted first-degree murder. Investigators said the case remains active as additional evidence is reviewed and prosecutors prepare for future court hearings.
Author note: Last updated July 4, 2026.