Imperial Valley Farmer Charged in Wife's Murder

An Imperial Valley farmer is facing a first-degree murder charge following the death of his estranged wife, Kerri Ann Abatti. Unsealed search warrant affidavits released to The Times detail the investigation that led to the arrest of Michael Abatti, 63.

$200 Million Trust and Contentious Divorce

According to court documents, the Abattis, wealthy landowners and farmers in the Imperial Valley, held a $200 million trust. The trust stipulated that all assets would pass to Michael Abatti in the event of Kerri’s death. The couple had been embroiled in a bitter divorce for approximately three years.

The Shooting in Arizona

On November 20th, Kerri Abatti, 59, was fatally shot in the face at her home in Pinetop-Lakeside, Arizona. Her nephew, William Robbins, discovered her unresponsive and bleeding in the dining room after hearing a loud bang. Emergency responders found a bullet hole in a dining room window.

Investigation Reveals Travel Pattern

Investigators determined the shot likely came from a high-powered rifle fired from approximately 30 yards away. License plate readers tracked Michael Abatti’s 2017 Ford truck traveling between California and Arizona on the night of the shooting. The truck was spotted in Globe, Arizona, near the time of the incident.

Suicide Attempt and Arrest

Three days after the shooting, on November 23rd, Michael Abatti attempted suicide at his farm in El Centro, California, and called 911. He reportedly told responders he attempted suicide due to the incident involving his wife and his children’s distress. He was subsequently arrested four weeks after the shooting and pleaded not guilty on December 31st.

Financial Motive Detailed in Affidavits

The affidavits suggest a financial motive, stating Kerri Abatti wanted to retain the Arizona home in the divorce, which would have required Michael Abatti to pay her approximately $10 million due to property value differences. The Arizona property was scheduled for assessment just two days after her death.

Legal Challenges and Concerns

Attorneys for Michael Abatti, Owen Roth and Danni Iredale, opposed the unsealing of the warrants, arguing it could jeopardize his right to a fair trial. They maintain his innocence, stating, “Search warrants are untested, one-sided presentations…one of the lowest standards of proof in law.”

Evidence Seized

Authorities seized over three dozen firearms, including rifles, shotguns, pistols, and revolvers, from Michael Abatti’s properties. Bail has been set at $5.5 million. His attorneys have expressed concern for his health and well-being.