(BENTON, IL) — A Christopher man charged in the Halloween night murder of his wife made his first court appearance by video Wednesday in Franklin County Court. Forty-three-year-old Brian D. Pheasant is charged with two counts of first degree murder in the death of 37-year-old Beth A. Pheasant at their home in Christopher. During an advisement hearing Wednesday, Brian Pheasant understood both charges and the judge granted his request for a public defender. A preliminary hearing was set for Nov. 23 at 1:30 in Franklin County Court. KFVS-TV reports if Pheasant is convicted, he could face 25 years to live in prison. He is currently in the Franklin County Jail on $2 million bond. Christopher Police responded to the couple’s home Monday night after receiving a 911 call. Officials say Beth Pheasant appeared to have suffered a gunshot wound and was later pronounced dead at the scene by Franklin County Coroner Marty Leffler. The case remains under investigation. A celebration of life visitation for Beth Pheasant will be held Saturday from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Gilbert Funeral Home in Christopher.