Husband pleads not guilty in wife’s murder

A 50-year-old Las Vegas man pleaded not guilty Thursday in District Court to one count of murder in connection with the November slaying of his wife.

Authorities think Marybeth Franta, a Molasky Middle School teacher, returned home the evening of Nov. 13 after attending a wedding and argued with her husband, Mark Franta, who had been drinking. They allege Mark Franta then strangled his wife.

Las Vegas police said video from two businesses showed Mark Franta early on Nov. 14 near where his wife's body was found. Later that day, Mark Franta reported his wife missing. He was arrested Nov. 17.

There had been no documented instances of domestic violence during the couple's marriage of more than 20 years. But family friends have said there was friction recently because Mark Franta, an ironworker, had lost his job.

Marybeth Franta's death shocked many in Las Vegas, including students and colleagues at Molasky Junior High and members of the local equestrian community. She was a former director of the Nevada State Horsemen's Association.

Contact reporter Francis McCabe at fmccabe@reviewjournal.com or 702-380-1039.