27-Year Murder Suspect Cleared

A man suspected for more than 27 years in the shooting death of his wife has apparently been exonerated by the confession of his former paper boy, now serving time for the murder of a college student.

Gilbert Peppin was never charged but was the only suspect in the slaying of his 26-year-old wife, Phyllis, who was shot to death at their home on a summer night in 1972. He maintained his innocence, got married again and kept working as a barber.

“It’s been a long 27 years,” Peppin said Wednesday after Ramsey County authorities announced the inmate’s confession.

Authorities said Charles Lee LaTourelle, 44, confessed to the crime, telling authorities it was time to talk about his “obsession” with Phyllis Peppin. He said he killed her during a rape attempt.

Ramsey County Atty. Susan Gaertner said she is confident the confession is legitimate.