PA Man Arrested After Confessing To Pastor He Hired Hitman to Kill Ex-Wife
Two Pennsylvania men are in jail after one of them confessed to his pastor that he paid the other $2000 to murder his ex-wife, prompting a quick call to the police and their swift arrest. According to WTAJ:
David Vanatta, 45, of Wilcox, and Colton Baird, 32, of Ridway, were charged after a pastor contacted police on Dec. 22 over a confession that had been made to him. Vanatta allegedly told the pastor that he had paid Baird $2,000 to kill his ex-wife.
Later that same day, Vanatta was interviewed by Pennsylvania State Police. During the conversation, he allegedly confirmed that he had paid Baird to kill his ex-wife and that the transaction took place at his house in Jones Township, according to the criminal complaint.
Police interviewed Baird, who confirmed Vanatta paid him in the murder-for-hire plot, and he was also arrested.
They each face one count of “criminal solicitation – criminal homicide, conspiracy – criminal homicide and criminal attempt – criminal homicide” and were denied bail.
Their preliminary hearing is set for Jan. 8, 2025.