What began as a reported suicide in a Huntersville home has since evolved into a murder case, with investigators pointing to cellphone search history as a key factor in the shift.

Susan Michelle Perry, 54, has been charged with first-degree murder in the death of her husband, Joe Perry, 58, according to an arrest warrant.

Emergency crews were called to the couple’s suburban Charlotte residence on Nov. 10 after a 911 call described as a suicide attempt. Officers with the Huntersville Police Department entered a home office and found Joe Perry lying on his back with a gunshot wound to the center of his chest. Susan Perry was nearby, kneeling on the floor, and a firearm sat on a nearby table, the affidavit states.

Paramedics attempted life-saving measures, but Joe Perry was pronounced dead at the scene.

In her initial statement, Susan Perry told police she had heard a loud noise and thought her husband might have fallen. She said she entered the office, saw him on the floor with blood visible, and called 911.

As the investigation continued, detectives reviewed data extracted from her phone. According to the warrant, her browsing history included searches about the value of her husband’s wedding ring, inquiries about what to do if a spouse wants a divorce and the person has no money, and a Google search for “center mass shots.”

When re-interviewed on Feb. 6, Susan Perry offered additional details, the affidavit says. She told investigators that she and her husband had argued the night before his death because he wanted a divorce. She said they argued again the following morning in a hallway and that she followed him into his office. According to her account, Joe Perry picked up a gun and held it in a neutral position. Fearing he might fire it, she said she grabbed the weapon, and during a struggle it discharged while both still had contact with it, striking him in the chest.

Investigators noted inconsistencies in her descriptions, including how long she waited before calling for help, what assistance she provided after the shooting, and what she did with the firearm immediately afterward.

The medical examiner determined that Joe Perry was shot at close range — a finding detectives cited in the affidavit as consistent with the proximity described during the alleged struggle.

Susan Perry was taken into custody and booked on a $150,000 bond. A judge also ordered a mental health evaluation. Her next court appearance is scheduled for Feb. 27.