Lawrence Edward Daly, a 64-year-old white male, died on February 6, 2014, in Port St. Lucie, Florida. His death was the result of a gunshot wound inflicted by his wife, Valerie Ann Lowe, a 53-year-old former U.S. Army captain. The incident occurred during a domestic dispute at their home on Northwest Cleburn Drive. According to Lowe, Daly, who was reportedly angry and intoxicated, became aggressive during an argument about money and his previous marriages.
Lowe claimed she shot Daly in self-defense when he allegedly threatened her with physical violence.
Following the shooting, Lowe called 911, stating that her husband had been aggressive and that she feared for her safety. She mentioned that Daly had drawn his fist back as if to punch her, prompting her to reach for her handgun and shoot him. Daly was taken to Lawnwood Trauma Center, where he succumbed to his injuries.
The investigation revealed that Lowe had a history of domestic disputes and had been involved in previous altercations. Detectives found evidence of recent activity on dating sites and life insurance quotes on the couple's home computer. Lowe was charged with second-degree murder, as the authorities determined that she had acted in a manner "imminently dangerous" and with a "depraved mind" but without premeditation.
Lowe's behavior following the shooting raised suspicions. She waited 12 minutes before calling the police, during which time she changed her clothes, put her gun away, and unlocked the front door. When the police arrived, they found her calm demeanor unusual. Lowe initially told the police that Daly had not hit her but later changed her story, claiming he had struck her several times. These inconsistencies led the police to question her account of the events.
In the aftermath, Lowe was denied bail and remained in custody at the St. Lucie County Jail. The case drew significant attention due to the circumstances surrounding the shooting and Lowe's military background. Ultimately, Lowe reached a plea deal and was sentenced to 10 years in prison for the murder of Lawrence Edward Daly.
