Lady Shooter Burns Down The House

"LIVE OAK, FL — Investigators with the state fire marshal’s office on Monday found the gun they believe was used in an attempted murder-suicide that left former SHS principal Clyde Sperring hospitalized and his wife dead.

"The small caliber handgun was located around 10 a.m. in the living room of the US 129 South home, near a body presumed to be that of Sperring’s wife, Beth.

"Cameron said an autopsy had not been completed, but believes it to be that of Beth Sperring.

"The body was burned beyond recognition in the fire that began at about 10 p.m. Saturday, soon after the shooting, authorities believe.

"The investigation continues, but Cameron said he believes that Beth Sperring, 59, shot Clyde Sperring, 60, twice, then used an accelerant to start the fire before taking her own life. Cameron said the body was found sitting on a sofa in the living room.

"Clyde Sperring, who called 911, was found by sheriff’s deputies in a bedroom located next to the living room.

"Deputies and a family friend broke out a bedroom window and found him covered with some sort of blanket to protect himself from the smoke and flames, Cameron said. He said the heat and smoke were so intense that his deputies had to be treated for smoke inhalation.

"Beth Sperring worked at Shands Live Oak and the Suwannee County Health Department before that. Those close to the situation said that Beth Sperring had placed several dogs inside a vehicle on the property with a note asking that they be taken care of. Cameron confirmed that there were dogs found inside a vehicle and that there were `what I believe to be written plans.`"

From the Suwannee Democrat...