Hays County Man Sentenced to 25 Years for Shooting Wife

Jury convicted Rodger Wilder, 73, of aggravated assault against a family member

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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A Hays County jury has sentenced 73-year-old Rodger Wilder to 25 years in prison after convicting him of aggravated assault against a family member for shooting his wife four times during a verbal argument in December 2024. Wilder's wife survived the attack after being taken to the hospital, and their son disarmed Wilder and called 911.

Why it matters

This case highlights the issue of domestic violence and the importance of holding abusers accountable, even in long-term relationships. It also underscores the bravery of victims and their families who come forward to testify against their abusers.

The details

According to the Hays County District Attorney's Office, Wilder shot his wife four times with a handgun after strangling her during a verbal argument in December 2024. Their son heard the gunshots, disarmed Wilder, and locked him outside while calling 911. Wilder had tried to claim his wife had attempted suicide, but the jury rejected this defense after hearing testimony about years of emotional, verbal, and physical abuse by Wilder against his wife.

  • In December 2024, Wilder shot his wife four times with a handgun after strangling her.

The players

Rodger Wilder

A 73-year-old Hays County man who was convicted of aggravated assault against a family member for shooting his wife.

Wilder's wife

The victim who was shot four times by her husband during a verbal argument, but survived after being taken to the hospital.

Wilder's son

Heard the gunshots, disarmed Wilder, and locked him outside while calling 911.

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What they’re saying

“The victim and her son showed extreme bravery and strength through their testimony. It is because of the son's quick actions and determination that she is alive today.”

— Shea Umphrey, Assistant District Attorney (expressnews.com)

What’s next

The judge will determine whether Wilder will be eligible for parole during his 25-year sentence.

The takeaway

This case underscores the importance of holding domestic abusers accountable, even in long-term relationships, and the bravery of victims and their families who come forward to testify against their abusers.