On a tragic day in South Royalton, Vermont, the life of Wanda Mae Sanville, a 48-year-old Caucasian woman, was cut short. On March 4, 2018, she was found dead in her home, the victim of a homicide that shook the small community. The events of that day unfolded in a harrowing manner, leaving a lasting impact on her family who were present at the scene.
Wanda's estranged husband, Frank Sanville, who was 70 years old at the time, was identified as the suspect.
He had been released on furlough just twelve days prior, following a plea deal for a domestic assault charge against Wanda. Despite a court order to stay away from her, Frank Sanville traveled to her home on that fateful morning.
Inside the house, Wanda was spending time with her brother, Todd Hosmer, and his young son. Without warning, Frank Sanville appeared and fatally shot Wanda. Hosmer heroically intervened, managing to disarm his brother-in-law and strike him with the rifle before he and his son escaped to a neighbor's house to call for help. A manhunt for Frank Sanville ensued, and he was apprehended by police several hours later, hiding nearby.
Frank Sanville was subsequently charged with first-degree murder. His legal journey involved a series of court appearances and plea changes. He eventually pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of second-degree murder. Despite a later attempt to withdraw his guilty plea, the conviction was upheld, and he was sentenced for the murder of his estranged wife.
