HE SAID HIS WIFE KILLED HERSELF — THEN THE BLOOD TRAIL TOLD A DIFFERENT STORY

A Colorado man is facing first-degree murder charges after investigators say the evidence inside his home contradicted his claim that his wife died by suicide.

Lindsey Barnett, 37, was found dead at the couple’s Lakewood home on August 13 with a fatal wound to her neck. Her husband, Patrick “Ted” Barnett, 40, had called 911 and told dispatchers that Lindsey had cut her own throat.

THE SCENE RAISED IMMEDIATE QUESTIONS

According to the arrest affidavit, investigators found a large amount of blood on the couple’s bed, sheets and pillows, while there was comparatively little blood in the bathroom where Lindsey was found.

Police also reported a trail of blood leading from the bedroom toward the bathroom, a knocked-over plant and a small bloody footprint near the bed. Investigators said blood patterns suggested Lindsey may have been moved after suffering her fatal injuries.

Lindsey also had bruises on multiple parts of her body, including her arms and legs. Investigators said some appeared consistent with defensive injuries.

HIS STORY ALSO CAME UNDER SCRUTINY

Patrick initially told police that he had been sleeping in the basement after an argument with Lindsey and discovered her the following morning.

He also told investigators that Lindsey had suffered from postpartum depression.

But investigators later learned that Patrick had been involved in an affair with another woman, whom he had reportedly met online several months earlier. The woman told police Patrick had discussed divorcing Lindsey.

Patrick initially denied being unfaithful before later acknowledging the relationship, according to the affidavit.

WHAT DID HER FAMILY SAY?

Lindsey’s mother, Donna Ott, told investigators that her daughter had experienced depression in the past but had not shown recent symptoms and had never attempted suicide.

She also described Lindsey as someone who loved her children and was looking forward to the new school year.

The couple had two young children, and authorities said they were inside the home when Lindsey died.

A CASE NOW HEADING TO COURT

Patrick Barnett has been charged with first-degree murder, along with charges involving alleged tampering with a deceased human body and physical evidence. He remains in custody without bond.

Authorities have not publicly established a motive.

And despite the disturbing evidence described in court documents, Patrick Barnett has not been convicted and remains entitled to the presumption of innocence.

A HUSBAND CALLED 911 WITH ONE STORY.

INVESTIGATORS SAY THE PHYSICAL EVIDENCE POINTED SOMEWHERE ELSE.

The biggest unanswered question now is not simply what happened inside that Lakewood home — but what happened between the last time Lindsey was alive and the moment her husband called for help.