Prof Who Beat Wife to Death: 'I Just Lost It'

A University of Pennsylvania economics professor beat his wife to death with an exercise bar as she wrapped Christmas gifts in their home, he admitted in court yesterday. Rafael Robb, 57, was arguing with his wife about where their 12-year-old daughter would spend Christmas when he said he "just lost it."  

"I am very remorseful," said Robb, who confessed to his daughter in a phone call from jail. "Now, she doesn't have a mother." He had been charged with first degree murder, which carries a mandatory life sentence. His guilty plea to manslaughter means he could be sentenced to less than four years in prison.  (More University of Pennsylvania stories.)