Sanford man arrested in connection with murder of 82-year-old wife

SANFORD, Fla. — Police found a woman dead in a Sanford home after her husband, who had parked his SUV on railroad tracks, told officers they should check on his wife late Friday, according to officers.

Lake Mary police found the man’s silver sport utility vehicle on the railroad tracks shortly before 11:50 p.m., police said.

The driver told officers they should conduct a well-being check on his wife at 100 Sycamore Court, prompting Lake Mary officers to contact the Sanford Police Department, according to a news release.

Sanford officers found his wife, 82-year-old Alice Watson, who was not responsive at that address soon after. The Sanford Fire Department arrived to provide aid, but the woman was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police said Watson's body was tied to a bed and had deep cuts. They said her feet were bound to a bedpost with a belt and elastic bandages and her finger was severed.

Investigators were questioning her husband, Elue Watson, when a medical condition unrelated to the case put him in the hospital.

Investigators said they searched Elue Watson's SUV in which they found a machete on the front passenger floorboard. They said he had blood on his clothing.

Watson was arrested on first-degree murder and kidnapping charges.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Sanford police or Crimeline at 800-423-8477.

Cox Media Group