Woman charged in bartender's murder

North Haven, Conn. (WTNH) - Police say it appears a North Haven woman fatally stabbed a bartender over a billiard game.

47-year old Mary Ames has been charged with murder in the death of 47-year old Christopher Hall. Ames' son, 24-year old Michael Ames, was also arrested for hindering prosecution.

It happened at Doran's Bar around 1am.

"Officers arriving found the bartender gravely injured. Paramedics arrived at the scene here pronounced him dead of his injuries. It appears to be a single stab wound to the chest," said Capt. James Merrithew, North Haven Police Department.

Police found the knife at the scene.

"She carried it with her here, it was in her possession. Single edged blade, probably six inches long," Capt Merrithew said.

Other bar customers gave police a description of the car that Mary and Michael fled in.

"Mary and her son Michael left the scene in a vehicle. Michael was driving. They were located a short time later by uniformed officers at their home on Oakwood Drive," Capt. Merrithew said.

Police say they've never been called out to Doran's before, and neighbors say they're surprised to hear about the violence.

"Yeah, very quiet. It never gets crowded, it's not even open late most of the time," said Bill Mazzano.