Wellsville man charged with killing his wife in ’07

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Jack Amato

Wellsville man charged with killing his wife in ’07

LISBON — A Wellsville man has surrendered to the Columbiana County Sheriff’s Office after being charged with murder in the shooting death of his wife.

Sheriff David L. Smith said Jack C. Amato Jr. appeared at the sheriff’s office at 12:15 p.m. today.

Amato was served with a three-count secret indictment.

He is charged with murder, illegal possession of a weapon, and firearm specifications.

The county grand jury heard information Wednesday about the case.

Amato had told investigators that he shot his wife after they argued at their home at 1200 Commerce St., Wellsville. Authorities were notified of the shooting about 1:40 p.m. July 1, 2007.

Tonia Brundage Amato, 25, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Amato told authorities she had fired at him and he returned fire, shooting her once between the eyes. She was found face down on the floor in a living room area. Police found several guns in the house.

The case was presented by special prosecutor Lynn A. Grimshaw of Wheelersburg, Ohio.

Prosecutor Robert Herron had stepped aside because, as prosecutor, he represents the county health department. Dr. Jack Amato, also of Wellsville and the father of the suspect, is a member of the county health board.