A Jonesborough man who shot his wife in the back of the head, then turned the gun on himself, died following a domestic dispute Monday afternoon.

Washington County Sheriff’s Department deputies were on their way to the home of Donald T. O’Connor, 72, and Hope Norene O’Connor, 74, to investigate a 911 hang-up call when the call was upgraded to a shooting call.

Sheriff Ed Graybeal said Mrs. O’Connor had been shot in the back of the head with a small caliber weapon, but was able to flee to the home of a neighbor.

“The woman, who was shot in the back of the head, managed to reach her neighbor’s house across the street to call 911,� said Sheriff Ed Graybeal, who said he was astonished that she was still able to function after being shot.

After authorities arrived at the scene, Mrs. O’Connor was transported to the Johnson City Medical Center.

Shortly thereafter, according to Graybeal, officers unsuccessfully attempted to contact Mr. O’Connor. After deputies entered the residence, Mr. O’Connor was found in the basement of the home with a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. Mr. O’Connor was also transported to JCMC where, he was pronounced dead.

Graybeal said neighbors told deputies the couple, who had reportedly been married for 35 years, “never showed any signs of trouble and were always together.�

“This a very peaceful area of the county and we rarely even come out here,� Graybeal said.