Plumsted murder suspect moves closer to trial

Arthur Haskoor, the Plumsted man suspected of killing his wife at their home last August faces 30 years to life in prison if convicted of first-degree murder.

The indictment against the 57-year-old, reached May 25 by an Ocean County grand jury, also includes two weapons possession counts, in the third and fourth degrees, according to the office of County Prosecutor Joseph D. Coronato.

Susanne Haskoor, 48, was found in the couple's driveway August 25 by Plumsted police, who were alerted by New Egypt High School officals who received a report of a domestic dispute, authorities said.

The couple had been married for 20 years, and were parents to sons, age 18 and 17.

Responding officers found a note on the front door, notifying police of guns in the house, which would be used to kill them, authorities alleged. Haskoor's son confirmed that at least six firearms belonging to him were inside, investigators said.

After a tense four and a half hours during which police attempted to communicate with Haskoor, they deployed a camera-equipped robot into the garage, where Haskoor reportedly was found unresponsive.

Haskoor was treated at a Trenton hospital for injuries described as self-inflicted, and considered non-life-threatening.