That's what history says and, for that matter, what Ruth herself said.
Details remain sketchy, however.
To present a depiction of what seems to have occurred that evening and over the weekend, the following events are based on a transcript of a confession Ruth made to a sheriff after her trial. Evidence uncovered from the crime scene supports this story, including her testimony that she killed in self defense. There are holes, nonetheless, considering sensible theories that sprang up afterwards. She waited until nearly nine when she realized Jack had stood her up. This wasn't the first time.