A murder warrant has been issued for Aaron Pennington, the missing Gardner man wanted after police responded to the family’s home Sunday and found his wife dead after being shot in the face.

Worcester District Attorney Joseph D. Early said the court issued the warrant three days after police began the search for Pennington who was previously sought in connection with his wife, Breanne Pennington’s death.

Police responded to the couple’s Cherry Street home in Gardner Sunday morning after their four children went to a neighbor’s house. Upon arrival, police found Breanne Pennington, 30, dead.

The four children are in state custody. Police recovered three bullet casings at the scene, but not gun, according to court documents.

A massive search for Aaron Pennington began Sunday and has continued since.

A bow hunter spotted Aaron Pennnington’s 2013 white BMW 320 Monday in the vicinity of Camp Collier, a Boy Scout camp in Gardner.

Early’s office filed for the murder warrant, which was granted by Gardner District Court Wednesday.

The search for Aaron Pennington is ongoing. He is considered armed and dangerous.

Anyone who sees Pennington is encouraged to contact the Gardner Police Department at 978-632-5600 or the Massachusetts State Police at 508-829-8326.

— Developing