SANFORD, FL – Authorities in Seminole County have charged a 42-year-old man with first-degree murder after he allegedly admitted to fatally shooting his father-in-law during a domestic dispute.

Shaun Simon appeared in court for the first time on Wednesday, facing accusations that he killed Bill Toth, the father of his wife, Jennifer Simon. The incident unfolded late Tuesday night at the family’s Sanford residence, which was shared by Simon, his wife, and her parents, Bill and Carol Toth.

Deputies were dispatched to the home following reports of a shooting. Emergency medical personnel arrived first and attempted to resuscitate Bill Toth before he was transported to a nearby hospital, where he ultimately died from his injuries.

Investigators said the shooting was preceded by months of escalating tension in the household. Family members stated that Bill Toth had exhibited signs consistent with dementia, contributing to ongoing disturbances within the home. They also indicated that recent suspicions about infidelity were straining Bill and Carol Toth’s marriage.

On the evening of the shooting, according to statements provided to deputies, an argument reportedly escalated to physical violence when Bill Toth allegedly struck his wife, Carol. Disturbed by the incident, Carol sought out her daughter and son-in-law to inform them of what had occurred.

Moments later, Shaun Simon left the bedroom where he was with his wife and mother-in-law and went to confront Bill Toth in the kitchen. A loud gunshot was heard shortly after, prompting Carol and Jennifer Simon to rush down the hallway, where they found Bill Toth lying on the floor.

Authorities said that after being read his rights, Simon told investigators he retrieved a handgun from beneath a homemade dog ramp in the house and shot Bill Toth in the chest. He also reportedly told deputies that he unloaded the weapon before law enforcement’s arrival, believing police would be at the scene soon.

During questioning, Simon described Bill Toth as a “narcissist” who he claimed had been causing significant distress to his family life. Simon allegedly said he made the decision to shoot his father-in-law immediately upon hearing that Carol Toth had been slapped.

Following his arrest, Simon was booked on a charge of first-degree premeditated murder. A judge ordered Simon held without bail, and his arraignment has been scheduled for March 24.

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances leading up to the shooting, including the family dynamics and prior incidents in the home.