Sentencing day in sword-slashing death

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - Monday is sentencing day for Stephen Shepherd.

He pleaded guilty to manslaughter last month as part of a plea deal, avoiding the initial charge of murder.

Stephen Sheperd is facing a 21-year prison sentence.

The 59 year old was arrested in May for killing his wife Constane Ann Shepherd, at their Sunset Terrace home in the Town of Tonawanda.

Constance, a librarian and paralegal, was known for her upbeat and friendly demeanor.

"She was Mrs. Congeniality, she loved to interact with people," said Ray Ball, the victim's friend.

Investigators say there was no evidence of a struggle at the crime scene and the couple had no history of domestic violence.

So why?

What drove Stephen Shepard to end his marriage by slashing his wife's neck with a sword?

He claims he and his wife made a suicide pact, that he didn't have the courage to finish.

Defense Attorney John Jordan said, "He is very remorseful, and I believe, and some people may not believe this, but he did in fact love his wife."

Shepherd will be sentenced Monday afternoon.

As part of a plea deal he's expected to spend the next 21 years behind bars.