DA seeks death penalty in stabbing

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (AP) - Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty against the husband and co-worker of a Fort Bragg soldier slain last year.

Multiple media outlets report Wednesday that Assistant District Attorney Cal Colyer said authorities wanted the death penalty during a hearing Tuesday.

Authorities say Sgt. Richard Smith lured his wife into a trap he had set with Pfc. Matthew Kvapil in September 2008. Police say Kvapil told investigators he hid in bushes while Smith walked with his wife, Sgt. Christina Smith, near their Fayetteville apartment.

Kvapil says he jumped out and stabbed Christina Smith to death.

Both men have been charged with murder and conspiracy to commit murder. Richard Smith told authorities he'd mentioned having his wife killed to people several times, but only in fun.