Murder trial gets underway in Palmer

WASILLA — Jury selection was underway Tuesday for the trial of a man charged with murdering his daughter in 2014.

Michael E. Wolverton, 70, was originally arrested for shooting and killing his daughter, Shannan Wolverton, 47, at his residence along Mariah Drive off of Wasilla-Fishhook Road after an argument about a male caller.

Michael Wolverton originally faced charges of first-degree murder, second-degree murder, fourth-degree weapons misconduct, and manslaughter. A grand jury dismissed the first-degree murder charge about a week after his arrest.

Wolverton has been free on $75,000 bail since November 2014.

According to troopers, he originally told authorities he had been drinking brandy that night. After his daughter came into his bedroom and began screaming at him, Michael Wolverton removed a gun from his nightstand and showed it to her. In response, Shannan became more aggressive, and Wolverton allegedly shot her once in the head with the .44 magnum revolver, killing her.

Wolverton told troopers he was scared of his daughter, that she had a history of violent episodes involving family members, possibly an undiagnosed and untreated mental illness, and that his health was poor and he became scared for his life. He also said the confrontation was “the last straw,” according to trooper reports at the time.

The trial is scheduled to last through at least May 12.

Second-degree murder is an unclassified felony, potentially punishable by a maximum sentence of 99 years and a fine of $500,000.

Manslaughter is a Class A Felony potentially punishable by up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.

Fourth-degree weapons misconduct is a Class A misdemeanor, potentially punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $10,000.

Contact reporter Brian O’Connor at 352-2270, brian.oconnor@frontiersman.com, or on Twitter @reporterbriano.