An 82-year-old Bethel Township man was arrested Friday morning after allegedly shooting his wife with a .22 caliber rifle, according to the Berks County District Attorney’s Office.
On Friday, October 4, 2024, at approximately 9:10 AM, a 911 call was placed to the Berks County Department of Emergency Services. The caller, who identified himself as Philip Boltz, told the call taker that he had just shot his wife with a .22 caliber rifle. The incident occurred at a residence in the 1200 block of Airport Road in Bethel Township.
Police units from Bethel Township, Tulpehocken Township, and the Pennsylvania State Police responded to the scene. Upon arrival of law enforcement, an 84-year-old female was located inside the residence with a gunshot wound to her head. She was transported by ambulance to the Penn State Hershey Medical Center in Hershey, PA. The caller, Howard “Phillip” Boltz was taken into custody by responding officers.
Based on the foregoing, a joint criminal investigation was initiated by the Bethel Township Police Department and the Berks County Detectives.
On Friday, October 4, 2024, the defendant was charged with Criminal Attempt-Homicide, Aggravated Assault, and related offenses. The defendant was transported to the Central Processing Center located at the Berks County Courthouse where he awaits his arraignment by a Magisterial District Judge.
The victim is currently being treated at the Penn State Hershey Medical Center where she is reported to be in stable condition.
As in every criminal case, the fact that an arrest occurred or a complaint has been filed is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
