Northern Idaho Family of Shooting Victim Speaks Out

BOISE (KTVB) - The man arrested for shooting a woman in the North End this past weekend appeared in court on Monday. He's being held on a $1 million bond. On Monday, the victim's family released her name and the relationship she had with the suspect.

Makaela Zabel Gravatt is a mother of four. Police say the suspect had actually threatened to shoot Makaela and he had been stalking her before the shooting Saturday evening, in a backyard on the 700 block of West Ressigue.

"He did fire at least two shots striking the victim," said Prosecuting Attorney Dan Dinger.

In an Ada County courtroom, the suspect, Christopher Wirfs, had his arraignment through teleconference.

"The day of the incident to my understanding he appeared at her work and was escorted out," said Dinger.

Gravatt is a local hairstylist and the suspect used to be her client. Prosecutors say Wirfs had been stalking the mother of four over the last couple of weeks.

"He threatened to shoot her and obviously he followed through," said Dinger.

"I think we're all fairly pleased with the outcome of the arraignment today," said Chrys Dahl, who is the victim's aunt. "I think that gave us a sigh of relief."

Now, Gravatt's family is speaking out.

"It's obviously an emotional time for us," said Dahl.

Dahl, along with the victim's husband, Travis Gravatt, tell us the 32-year-old is recovering in the hospital, but has a long road to recovery.

"She's doing as well as she can be doing," said Dahl.

They say they can't talk about the police investigation because it's ongoing, but say they're confident Gravatt will come back 100 percent from the shooting, not only for herself, but for her family and everyone else who loves her.

"She's a bright shining star," said Dahl.

The family has asked for privacy, especially with four young children involved, but they're also very thankful for all the support. Neighbors have even been bringing over food, and the salon Gravatt works for has set up an account to help with her medical expenses. Click here to find out how you can help.