AUSABLE TOWNSHIP, MI – A 32-year-old AuSable Township woman is in jail after authorities allege she fatally shot her husband during a heated argument earlier this week at their home near Lake Huron’s western shore.
Law enforcement officials said the incident unfolded late Monday night, just before 11 p.m., at a residence in the small Iosco County community. Police responded to reports of gunfire and arrived to find 31-year-old James Thomas Ragen IV wounded by a single bullet. Emergency medical personnel attempted lifesaving measures, but he was pronounced dead at the scene minutes later.
According to statements provided by investigators, Melissa Christine Ragen admitted to retrieving a .357 caliber revolver during an altercation with her husband and firing the weapon, striking him in the chest. Authorities confirmed that no other individuals were injured during the episode.
Ragen now faces charges of open murder and felony firearm. She was arraigned Monday in Iosco County’s 81st District Court, entering a plea of not guilty. Court records for the case have yet to be made publicly available.
Legal records indicate that the couple’s relationship had a turbulent history. Nearly four years ago, Melissa Ragen, then under her maiden name, filed a paternity suit against James Ragen. The litigation concluded in mid-2020 with a court order officially establishing him as the father of at least one child. Social media profiles suggest the couple later had more children together.
AuSable Township, a quiet community known for its proximity to Lake Huron, was rocked by the news of the fatal shooting. Neighbors expressed shock over the allegations, noting that the family had lived in the area for several years.
Police have not released further details about what led to the dispute or the moments leading up to the shooting. Officials confirmed that no one else was present or harmed during the incident.
Melissa Ragen remains in custody as the investigation continues. She is next scheduled to appear in court on Oct. 14 for a probable cause conference, with a preliminary examination set for Oct. 28.
Authorities have not indicated whether any children were inside the home at the time of the shooting. The case remains active, with both law enforcement and prosecutors working to determine all circumstances surrounding the deadly confrontation.