Frank J. Litterio, 61, of Elma, New York, faces a second-degree murder charge for the fatal shooting of his girlfriend, 62-year-old Jill Harris, with a crossbow. The homicide occurred within the home they shared on December 13, 2023.
Deputies from the Erie County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to the residence around 5 p.m. following a welfare check request made to 911. Harris was found dead on the couch, with injuries indicative of crossbow bolts. Litterio was also at the residence, presenting with injuries believed to be self-inflicted. District Attorney John J. Flynn stated that Litterio’s wounds were inflicted by a weapon other than the crossbow used in Harris’s death.
A subsequent autopsy identified that Harris had been hit by crossbow arrows three times: in the abdomen, face, and chest.
Undersheriff Bill Cooley, in a press briefing, pointed out the intentional aspect of the crime, emphasizing the methodical process required to load and discharge a crossbow.
The couple had been living together for approximately 15 years at Litterio’s West Blood Road residence.
On December 15, 2023, Litterio faced arraignment while receiving medical attention at Erie County Medical Center for his self-inflicted injuries, which included a neck laceration, chest punctures, and wrist injuries. He remains in custody without bail until his court appearance set for January 29, 2024.
Should Litterio be found guilty, the murder charge could lead to a prison term spanning from 25 years to life. The Erie County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with the New York State Police, is conducting further investigation into the incident, with Chief Gary W. Hackbush of the Homicide Bureau leading the prosecution.
Police confirmed through autopsy results that Harris had been deceased for several hours before being found, having sustained the three crossbow shots.
This case follows a prior incident in upstate New York involving a crossbow, where a man was charged with the murder of his newborn and assault of his wife.
The mode of attack, as noted by authorities, points to premeditated action by Litterio, given the required time to prepare and use a crossbow. Herb Greenman, Litterio’s legal representative, has not issued any statements regarding the case.
Litterio is held at the Erie County Medical Center awaiting his January court date, which is expected to shed more light on the incident and his defense strategy.
