A Colorado dentist was arrested Sunday after being accused of poisoning his wife in what police have called a “heinous, complex and calculated murder.”
James Toliver Craig, 45, was arrested early March 19 on charges of first-degree murder after police launched an investigation into the suspicious death of his wife at a local hospital March 15, a release from the Aurora Police Department stated.
An Aurora dentist was arrested for the alleged poisoning death of his wife in what police said called a “heinous, complex and calculated murder,” the Aurora Police Department announced Sunday https://t.co/EzVqozEeVa
— Denver7 News (@DenverChannel) March 19, 2023
Just before 9 p.m. Wednesday, Craig reportedly drove his wife, 43, to a hospital because she was complaining of severe headaches and dizziness, the release stated. Upon her arrival, her condition “deteriorated rapidly,” forcing her into the Intensive Care Unit where she was placed on a ventilator. Craig’s wife was declared medically brain dead shortly thereafter, according to the release.
The rapid decline of her health and her “suspicious” death, spurred an investigation from the Major Crimes Homicide Unit who discovered that the 43-year-old was a victim of poisoning. Officials charged Craig with first-degree murder on Sunday morning and placed him under arrest after obtaining a warrant.
“When the suspicious details of this case came to light, our team of officers and homicide detectives tirelessly worked to uncover the truth behind the victim’s sudden illness and death,” Division Chief Mark Hildebrand stated in the release. “It was quickly discovered this was in fact a heinous, complex and calculated murder. I am very proud of our Major Crimes Homicide Unit’s hard work in solving this case and pursuing justice for the victim.” (RELATED: Alex Murdaugh Sentenced To Life In Prison For Murdering Wife And Son)
While police have not disclosed details of their findings, patients of Craig have declared their shock over the charges, with one stating she had chosen his practice because of his six children.
“My first thought was really first of his kids, and then second of his employees who have also been incredibly nice people,” said Danielle Travis, according to ABC 7. “I just can’t imagine any kids, six kids, being without a mother and potentially even being without their father and again, someone who I would have never, ever expected to be in this kind of situation.”