Man accused of killing wife, daughters pleads not guilty

PHOENIX (FOX 10) - The man accused of killing his family and another man pleaded not guilty to murder charges in court on Friday.

Austin Smith was arrested earlier this month after telling police he killed his wife, 5-and-7-year-old daughters, and another man because he thought his wife was having an affair.

Smith also told police his religion was a factor in committing the crimes.

"He said that the reason he shot these individuals is because in God's eyes, it was all right for him to deal with someone in this manner who had been involved in adultery, extramarital affairs," said Phoenix Police Sergeant Tommy Thompson.

Smith also told police he killed his 7-year-old daughter because she was "weeping for the wicked."

Smith is facing four counts of first-degree murder.

His next court appearance is scheduled for June 7.