Man Called 911 Saying His Gun ‘Accidentally’ Went Off. Then First Responders Found His Girlfriend Shot Multiple Times

**Maine Man Charged with Murder Following Girlfriend’s Shooting Death**

A 24-year-old man, Austin Doucette, has been charged with murder in relation to the shooting death of his girlfriend, Makayla Desantis, aged 23, in their Carrabassett Valley condominium. The tragic incident occurred on March 8 and has left the local community in shock, raising questions about gun safety and domestic violence.

According to court documents, Doucette called emergency services shortly after the shooting, claiming that the gun had accidentally discharged. During a frantic 911 call, the dispatcher recorded Doucette’s distressing statements, including comments such as “I’m sorry babe” and “I can’t believe I did this.” These statements are now being scrutinised as part of the ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding Desantis’s death.

In a subsequent call, Doucette reportedly told dispatchers that his girlfriend had suffered a gunshot wound and reiterated that the weapon had gone off by accident. “I would never do this,” he reportedly said, expressing fear of the potential legal consequences of the incident. Following the initial call, Doucette declined to provide further information to investigators without legal representation.

Emergency responders arriving at the scene assisted Doucette as he transported Desantis in the back of his vehicle. Paramedics worked quickly to treat her injuries before airlifting her to a hospital. Desantis was conscious upon arrival and had a heartbeat. Despite these efforts, she succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced dead after being transferred to Maine Medical Center in Portland.

Police investigating the incident discovered a Smith & Wesson .45-caliber handgun in the couple’s living room, along with three spent shell casings. The investigation revealed that Desantis had died from multiple gunshot wounds to the chest, and authorities classified her death as a homicide. Damage consistent with the gunfire was also identified on the furniture and flooring of the condominium.

Doucette was subsequently arrested on March 9 and faced charges of intentional or knowing murder with a firearm. The criminal complaint accuses him of acting knowingly and intentionally in connection with the shooting, although he maintains his assertion that it was an accident.

In the wake of Desantis’s death, her younger sister has set up a GoFundMe page aimed at raising funds for funeral and burial expenses. In an emotional appeal, she described her sister as “the most heartfelt, well-minded woman” she had ever known, expressing her profound grief at the loss. The page has drawn many contributions, reflecting the impact Desantis had on those around her.

“My sister always put other people before herself,” her sibling continued, lamenting the untimely nature of Desantis’s passing. This heartfelt tribute not only highlights the exceptional character of Desantis but also underscores the sense of loss felt by family and friends who are struggling to cope with her sudden departure.

Court records have yet to indicate whether Doucette has secured legal representation as the case progresses through the legal system. The incident has sparked conversations around issues of gun safety and relationships within the local and broader communities, prompting a closer examination of the factors that led to this devastating tragedy.

As the investigation continues, the community is left to reflect on the circumstances surrounding Desantis’s death, whilst Doucette awaits his next court appearance to face the serious charges levied against him.