Opelika man charged with murder in death of 68-year-old wife

A Lee County man has been charged with murder in the death of his wife earlier this year.

Spencer Tracy Bell, 54, initially charged with first-degree elder abuse and neglect and first-degree domestic violence.

On Oct. 31, a grand jury indicted Bell for murder, according to newly released court documents.

On Feb. 6, Opelika police responded to a call of an unresponsive 68-year-old woman in the 2600 block of Frederick Road.

Barbara Ann Bell was taken to East Alabama Medical Center and admitted to the Intensive Care Unit.

Authorities said Barbara Bell died on February 8. The cause of death has not yet been announced.

Bell was arrested on Feb. 13 on charges of elder abuse and neglect. Then, three days later, investigators added a domestic violence charge.

He was later released on bail.

Bell will make his first court appearance next month.