Downstate man convicted of trying to kill wife, daughter

BELLEVILLE -- Sentencing is set for July 13 for a southwestern Illinois man convicted of trying to kill his wife and daughter by blowing up their house.

A St. Clair County jury deliberated more than three hours Wednesday before finding 45-year-old Gary Smith guilty of two counts apiece of attempted first-degree murder and unlawful restraint.

Prosecutors say Smith bound his wife and detained her in the kitchen with their 5-year-old daughter in May 2008, then turned on the gas stove.

The wife and daughter fled unharmed moments before the Belleville house exploded with Smith inside.

Smith's attorney says the defense is exploring whether to appeal.