An Arizona man who was arrested and accused of murdering his wife and her father has pleaded not guilty.

Michael James Burt was accused of strangling his wife, 23-year-old Marlene Gorman, and then shooting his father-across the back, killing him in the head.

The Arizona Department of Public Safety says Burt killed his wife when she went to check on him after work Monday morning.

The agency did not provide a motive for the killings.

Investigators say Burt had a history of violence and drug use.

He has a prior conviction for attempted murder and two felony convictions for felony domestic battery.

Burt is charged with murder, kidnapping and child abuse.

The FBI says it is assisting the Arizona Department Of Public Safety.