Patrick Theodore 'Ted' Barnett, 40, has been arrested on suspicion of first-degree murder in the death of his wife, Lindsey Barnett, an art teacher. Police were called to the couple's bloodstained home in Lakewood, Colorado, on Thursday morning after Barnett reported finding his wife unresponsive.
Barnett told authorities he discovered Lindsey in the shower, apparently having cut her own throat. First responders found her body in the shower with a large gash on her neck and a knife nearby. Investigators noted a pool of blood on the bed with a trail leading to the bathroom, where they observed less blood.
Barnett stated he last saw his wife between 10 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. the previous night, following an argument about dinner. He indicated the couple had been experiencing relationship issues and sleeping in separate bedrooms. He also mentioned they were working on their marriage.
Lindsey Barnett's parents have disputed the notion of her being suicidal. Her mother described their nearly five-year marriage as troubled, characterizing Barnett as having anger issues and being verbally abusive and controlling, though not physically abusive. She recalled an instance where Lindsey sought refuge at her parents' home due to issues with Barnett.
During the investigation, police received a call from a woman who identified herself as Barnett's girlfriend. She had sought a welfare check, expressing concern after not hearing from him. The woman told police she met Barnett online three months prior and that he had claimed his wife was severely mentally ill and had attempted suicide. She also stated Barnett had told her he was divorcing his wife.
When questioned about these claims, Barnett reportedly altered his account, suggesting his wife was aware of and accepting of the extramarital relationship, but that they had not disclosed it to others.
Investigators observed several unexplained injuries on Barnett, including a thumb wound and scratches on his arm and chest, which appeared consistent with defensive wounds. He initially attributed these injuries to an ultimate frisbee tournament but later offered conflicting accounts of when the tournament occurred. Police also noted dried blood on Barnett's neck and behind his ear, for which he provided no explanation. His hands were clean, despite his initial claim of moving his wife's body to attempt to save her life, later clarifying he had only checked for a pulse.
Lindsey Barnett had unexplained bruises on her arms, legs, back, hips, and hands. Her clothing was not blood-soaked, and most of her body was free of blood.
Barnett is being held without bond on suspicion of first-degree murder. His next court appearance is scheduled for Thursday.
Lindsey Barnett, 37, was a dedicated art teacher at two elementary schools. In a letter to parents, Hutchinson Elementary Principal DeAnn Hoffman remembered her for her passion for teaching, her sweet nature, and her commitment to students. The school district is providing mental health support for students and staff as the academic year approaches.