Massachusetts woman convicted of killing firefighter husband

A Massachusetts woman was convicted of murdering her husband, a firefighter, in 2021.

Christine Ricci, 49, was found guilty of second-degree murder and assault and battery with a deadly weapon in the death of her husband, Michael Ricci, a 51-year-old Boston firefighter.

The verdict was delivered on Aug. 2 in Plymouth County court, following a five-day trial that shed light on the domestic violence case. Reports from NBC 10, MassLive, and CBS News stated that Michael Ricci was found stabbed in the Marshfield, Massachusetts, home of the couple in Jan. 2021.

Authorities reported that Michael Ricci suffered wounds to his heart and back. When first responders arrived at the scene, Christine Ricci initially claimed her husband had experienced a manic episode and fallen. However, emergency personnel soon discovered the stab wounds, prompting further investigation.

Christine Ricci explained to the police afterward that she was holding a knife in fear when her husband attacked her. Reportedly, she asserted that she was unaware of his stabbing until he collapsed. CBS reported that a knife was discovered close to Michael's remains.

During the testimony, witnesses mentioned that Christine had just learned about her husband's affair. This disclosure allegedly resulted in frequent disputes between the pair. Sophiya, the couple's daughter, who was 16 years old when the incident occurred, stated that she was "used to" her parents arguing.

The Boston Fire Department, where Michael Ricci had served for 23 years, released a statement following the verdict. "This is an awful tragedy," the department said, as reported by NBC. "Michael was a valued member of the Boston Fire Department for 23 years. He will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to him and his family."

Christine Ricci's sentencing is scheduled for Aug. 22.