As previously reported by KNIA/KRLS, a civil lawsuit has been filed in Marion County for the wrongful death of Shirley Carter.

Carter was found shot to death in her home in rural western Marion County in June 2015. The criminal investigation into her death by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office and Iowa DCI continues, and charges have not been filed. According to court records, Shirley’s husband Bill Carter and family members are suing Jason Carter, her and Bill’s youngest son, for wrongful death. The lawsuit seeks damages related to the loss of love, affection, services, companionship, and consortium of Shirley Carter. Attorney for the Carter family Ron Danks tells KNIA/KRLS News while he and the family thank the Marion County Sheriff’s Office and DCI for their efforts, the family does not want to wait for criminal charges to be filed before pursuing the civil case. When asked by KNIA/KRLS News if he could prove Jason Carter was guilty of murder, Danks replied, “without a doubt. I wouldn’t have brought the suit forward if I couldn’t.”