In the quiet town of Newton, Kansas, a tragedy unfolded in the early morning hours of December 15, 2023, forever altering the lives of a local family. Peggy Sue Altum, a 74-year-old Caucasian female, was in her home on Terrace Drive when the peace was shattered by the sound of gunfire. The incident led to her untimely death and the arrest of her husband, leaving a community in shock and a family grappling with an inexplicable loss.
That morning, at approximately 1:45 a.m., a chilling 911
call was made from the Altum residence. The caller, later identified as Peggy's 70-year-old husband, Edward L. Altum, informed the dispatcher that his wife had been shot but refused to provide any further details. When police officers arrived at the scene, they were met by Edward, who exited the house with his hands raised. Inside, they discovered Peggy lying in her bed with multiple gunshot wounds. A. 22-caliber revolver was found on the kitchen counter. Peggy was rushed to Wesley Medical Center in Wichita with life-threatening injuries. Despite the efforts of medical professionals, she succumbed to her wounds the following day, on December 16, 2023.
The investigation into Peggy's death quickly focused on her husband. Edward Altum was taken into custody at the scene and initially arrested on a charge of attempted murder. Following his wife's death, the charge was upgraded to first-degree murder. The motive for the shooting remained a mystery throughout the investigation, as there were no prior reports of domestic violence at the couple's home. In the subsequent legal proceedings, Edward L. Altum ultimately pleaded no contest to a reduced charge of second-degree intentional murder and one count of aggravated battery. He was sentenced to over 17 years in prison for the death of his wife, bringing a somber conclusion to a case that left many unanswered questions.
Peggy Sue Altum was remembered as a loving mother and grandmother whose greatest joy was her family. A retired receptionist, she was known for her love of gardening, country-western dancing, and spending time with her loved ones. Her sudden and violent death sent ripples through the community, leaving behind a legacy of warmth and kindness that contrasted sharply with the tragic circumstances of her passing.
