Elizabeth Sinderbrand Contrivo, a 58-year-old woman from Candler, NC, was found dead alongside her husband, Frank Joseph Contrivo, on May 20, 2016. The Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office responded to multiple 911 calls reporting gunshots and screams from the Contrivo residence. Upon arrival, deputies discovered both Elizabeth and Frank Contrivo deceased outside their home.
The investigation revealed that Frank Contrivo, a 64-year-old retired attorney, had shot his wife before turning the gun on himself.
The couple had a history of domestic violence, with Elizabeth Contrivo having filed multiple protective orders against her husband over the years. In December, Elizabeth obtained a domestic violence protective order, which she later voluntarily dismissed. On April 29, 2016, Elizabeth charged Frank with assault, alleging that he struck her in the face with a closed fist, grabbed her by the throat, and pushed her back to prevent her from leaving their home. Frank was also charged with interfering with emergency communications for breaking Elizabeth's phone during the altercation.
Neighbors reported hearing Elizabeth scream for help before the fatal shots were fired. One neighbor recounted hearing Elizabeth plead with her husband, "Frank, please don't hurt me!" before the gunshots ceased. The investigation also uncovered that Frank had been staying at a hotel across from the Asheville Outlets and had a history of legal troubles, including charges for carrying a concealed weapon, driving while impaired, and possessing various items such as a hatchet, baton, and stun gun.
Elizabeth Contrivo's tragic death highlighted the ongoing issues of domestic violence within the household. Despite her efforts to seek protection through legal channels, the situation ultimately escalated to a fatal conclusion. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of addressing domestic violence and providing support to those affected.
