Texas man claims self-defense in fatal shooting of wife (VIDEO)

The couple had been married about two years and neighbors said they seemed happy. (Photo: Facebook)

A 24-year-old man faces murder charges after he shot his wife at their home in Spring, Texas, early Sunday morning, but the man claimed he fired in self-defense.

Martin Gaytan told authorities that he and his wife, Monica, had become engaged in an argument that escalated to violent proportions around 5 a.m., local media reported. Martin said that during the argument Monica pointed a handgun at him, but he was able to take the gun from her.

However, once Martin had gained control of the gun, he opened fire on his wife, striking her multiple times. Martin then called 911 and admitted to killing his wife, but told authorities that he fired in self-defense.

Monica was pronounced dead when responding officers arrived at the home.

Although authorities have not released many details, they did confirm that Martin was charged with murder Sunday following an interview with investigators.

The couple had been married for about two years and had a small child together, who was not home during the altercation.

Neither Martin or Monica had a known criminal record and there was no apparent history of domestic disputes. Likewise, residents of the neighborhood said the couple seemed happy and were good neighbors.

Martin was considered a gun enthusiast and often sharing comments on guns and gun rights on his Facebook page, which has been taken down, making this the second gun rights advocate in Texas this month to be charged with murder for the death of a spouse.

Veronica Dunnachie is facing capital murder charges after she allegedly shot and killed her husband and stepdaughter in their Arlington home on Dec. 10. Dunnachie then drove herself to a mental hospital where she was taken into police custody.

An investigation revealed that Dunnachie and her husband were going through a divorce when the shooting occurred. She also had four children, three of whom were with her deceased husband, who are now in state custody.