Opelika man arrested for alleged elder abuse after wife dies—now charged with murder

 by: Elizabeth White

OPELIKA, Ala. (WRBL) – A 68-year-old Opelika woman is dead, and her husband now faces a felony murder charge connected to her death. Spencer Tracy Bell, 54, was indicted by a Lee County grand jury in October following the February death of his wife, Barbara Ann Bell, who had been hospitalized at East Alabama Health.

Barbara Bell died on February 8, 2024, after being admitted to the hospital. Five days later, Opelika police arrested Spencer Bell on charges of Elder Abuse and Neglect in the First Degree. Authorities alleged neglect and mistreatment contributed to Barbara’s declining health and eventual death.

In late October a Lee County grand jury upgraded the charges against Spencer Bell, indicting him for felony murder.

Court documents reveal Spencer Bell was initially granted a $30,000 bond after his February arrest, which he posted within days. However, the felony murder indictment on November 5 led to his bond being revoked. 

Bell was taken back into custody on November 15 and Bell’s bond was reset at $250,000. His attorney has filed a motion for a bond reduction, citing Bell’s inability to pay the current amount. The defense argues Bell is not a flight risk, has minimal criminal history, and complied fully with his previous bond conditions.A hearing on the motion is scheduled for December 2.

Opelika investigators continue to work with the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences to review evidence of Barbara Bell’s death and the alleged connection to abuse. Detectives have not released additional details about the nature of the neglect or the medical finding.

Bell remains in custody at the Lee County Detention Facility pending the outcome of his bond hearing. WRBL will continue to follow the case. 

Full Article & Source:
Opelika man arrested for alleged elder abuse after wife dies—now charged with murder