Husband arrested in killing of St Augustine woman

Just after 10:30 p.m. last night, local Historic City News reporters were informed that the husband of 44 year-old Stephanie Theresa Singleton-Gilliam was arrested in St Augustine and booked in the St Johns County Detention Facility, charged with her murder.

Frederick Gilliam, 47 years-old, who shared the residence at 241 Duval Street in St Augustine, called E-911 early yesterday morning at about 4:30 a.m., reporting that he and his wife were the victims of a home invasion robbery.

When officers arrived, they found Stephanie Gilliam dead inside the residence — the apparent victim of fatal neck wounds. Frederick Gilliam had superficial stab wounds. He was transported to Flagler Hospital and released to the custody of Robbery-Homicide detectives for questioning.

Gilliam told officers that the couple was at home when two unknown men burst in and attempted to rob them. In the reported attack, both Gilliams were stabbed — Stephanie fatally.

Based on evidence collected at the crime scene and conflicting statements made to detectives during questioning, Frederick Gilliam was arrested and remains in custody, without bond, facing first-degree felony charges in the willful killing of his wife.

Although the manner of death is homicide, the cause of death must be determined by District 23 Medical Examiner, Dr. Predag Bulic, during a post-mortem examination.

Gilliam will have his arraignment hearing later this morning; at which time bail, if any, will be established.