FARMINGTON, N.M. (AP) — A Bloomfield man pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in the stabbing his wife nearly a year ago during an argument over the thermostat at their home.
The Farmington Daily Times reports that 57-year-old Steve Barela was sentenced Thursday to 20 years in prison.
Barela was accused of fatally stabbing Evelyn Barela on Dec. 18 at the couple's home.
Authorities say Barela called 911 to report the killing, but fled the residence before officers arrived.
Court records say a gas-station clerk later reported that a man with blood on his hands and shoes had entered the store and confessed to killing his wife.
Barela was eventually stopped in a pickup truck after a short chase.
Records say a 10-inch knife was found in the back of the truck.