TRAVERSE CITY, MI -- A Traverse City man has pleaded guilty to accidentally shooting and killing his girlfriend in what he said was a suicide attempt.

Robert Caldwell, 33, on Friday, March 21, pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter, discharge of a firearm while under the influence, felony firearm and resisting and obstructing police, court records show. The charges stem from a November shooting that killed 28-year-old Monica Anderson.

Police were called to the couple's apartment on Three Mile Road and Aero Park Drive about 10:30 p.m. Nov. 19. Caldwell reported he had attempted to commit suicide but "missed" and hit Anderson, police said.

Caldwell was standing on a stairwell and the bullet traveled up the stairwell and struck Anderson, he told police.

Grand Traverse County Prosecutor Bob Cooney said Caldwell was not offered a plea deal. His attorney said he entered the plea to prevent Anderson's family from suffering further pain, Cooney said.

Caldwell faces up to 17 years in prison. He will be sentenced April 17, according to court records.

Angie Jackson covers public safety and breaking news for MLive/The Grand Rapids Press. Email her at ajackso3@mlive.com, and follow her on Twitter.