Sunday, September 30, 2012

Child Witnesses Parents' Murder/Suicide


"ORLANDO, FL — Orlando police say two people are dead in an apparent murder-suicide and the couple’s child saw the whole thing.

"A police spokesman said it happened just before 5:30 p.m. at an apartment in the Stag Horn Villas at 4650 Stag Horn Drive.

"Police were called about a cutting, but arrived to find a man and woman lying on the floor.

"Both were taken to the hospital and later died from their injuries.

"Police did not say what injuries the victims had, but that the man killed the woman and then took his own life.

"According to investigators, the couple’s young daughter saw what happened and found a neighbor to tell them. That neighbor then called police.

"Police are still investigating and have not released the victim’s identities. The young girl is in the custody of the Department of Children and Families for now."


From cfnews13.com...

Deadly Argument Over New Boyfriend


"WEST PALM BEACH, FL — Two people were dead early Sunday after what Palm Beach Sheriff's Office investigators said was an apparent murder-suicide.

"Just before 1 a.m., deputies said Owen Cornwall, 50, who had been separated from his wife for some time, went to her residence at 17043 Orange Blvd., and after an argument over a new boyfriend, shot her.

"After the shooting, witnesses wrestled the gun away from Cornwall. But he fled on foot to his residence on 48th Avenue North, Loxahatchee, where he got another firearm from the garage.

"He then shot himself, according to deputies.

"Police say the couple had a history of domestic incidents."


From SunSentinel.com...

Friday, September 28, 2012

Two Dead, One Critical In Texas Love Triangle Shooting


"HARLINGEN, TX — Two people have been shot dead and the suspected gunman is in critical condition following an early Friday morning domestic disturbance in Harlingen.

"Harlingen police are investigating the case as a double murder and attempted suicide.

"Police officers responded to 1013 E. Polk Ave in reference to a burglary in progress around 12:39 a.m. Friday.

"While officers were on their way, the caller told a 911 operator that they heard gunfire.

"Officers found three subjects suffering from what appeared to be gunshot wounds: Sarah Maxwell Montemayor, 29, Devan Leroy Haynes, 28, and Omar Montemayor, 34.

"Investigators reported that Montemayor and his wife Sarah had been separated.

"Harlingen police believe that Montemayor broke into his estranged wife's home and then shot and killed Haynes, who police said is from the Karnes City area.

"Montemayor allegedly shot and killed his estranged wife and then turned the gun on himself.

"Police said paramedics took Montemayor to the Valley Baptist Medical Center in Harlingen where he was last listed in critical condition."


From ValleyCentral.com...

Florida Jumper Was Maryland Slasher


"WHEATON, MD — The man police believe killed a Wheaton woman Saturday morning was taken into custody by Florida police Tuesday after he jumped off a nine-story building in an apparent suicide attempt.

"Martire Puente-Fulcar, 31, remains in critical condition in a Miami area hospital Thursday after officers from the Miami Beach Police Department responded to an apparent suicide attempt at the Versailles Hotel, located at 3425 Collins Ave. in Miami, said Sgt. Bobby Hernandez, a spokesman for Miami Beach police.

"`Right now he’s in the hospital recovering from the injuries that he sustained when he jumped,` Hernandez said. `He was not conscious when officers arrived; he was discovered by a hotel security guard who called it in as an apparent suicide attempt.`

"Fulcar was developed as a suspect in the Montgomery County police’s investigation into the death of 37-year-old Rocio Nikaury Morcelo, who was found dead from multiple stab wounds in the stairwell of her apartment building in the 2200 block of Georgian Way in Wheaton at 3:31 a.m. Saturday, said Montgomery County police spokeswoman Officer Britta Thomas."


From Gazette.net...

7 Shot, 5 Dead In Workplace Murder/Suicide


"MINNEAPOLIS, MN — A gunman opened fire inside a Minneapolis sign company on Thursday, killing five people including himself and wounding four others, police said.

"Minneapolis Police spokesman Steve McCarty said five people were dead at Accent Signage Systems, including the gunman. Three others were in critical condition at Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis and a forth had non-life threatening injuries, he said.

"He declined to identify those killed or wounded, and said he did not know what connection the shooter may have had with the business, if any.

"A representative from Accent Signage Systems could not be reached for comment. A July article in a local business publication said the company had 28 employees.

"Police cordoned off the area around the company and held residents back."


From the Vancouver Sun...

UPDATE:

10/06/2012 — Gunman said "oh really," then started shooting...

Thursday, September 27, 2012

3 Dead, 1 Injured After Florida Hotel Shooting Spree


"ORLANDO, FL — For more than two years, Michelet Polynice told Carlene Pierre that someday he would kill her.

"On Thursday, he did.

"Polynice fatally shot Pierre and a co-worker at a hotel near International Drive, then drove to a nearby resort and shot Pierre's best friend. After leading Orange County deputies on a pursuit through Pine Hills, Polynice committed suicide.

"Pierre, a 28-year-old hotel clerk, told authorities two weeks ago her estranged boyfriend—a man with a long history of violence against several women—choked, punched and threatened to kill her. She was afraid he wouldn't stop until she was dead.

"`He is very jealous, very controlling, he has a temper, anything will set him off and he will start hitting me,` Pierre wrote in a Sept. 12 petition for a domestic violence injunction against 33-year-old Polynice, who a day before ran her over in the hotel parking lot. `I am very afraid for my life.`

"An Osceola County judge granted the request, and on Wednesday night, Orange County deputies served Polynice with an injunction that ordered him to stay away from his ex-girlfriend.

"Hours later, Polynice walked into the Quality Suites and killed Pierre and her 28-year-old co-worker, who has not been publicly identified.

"A witness [said] the shooter walked into the hotel while guests were eating breakfast, waved a gun around and fired one shot into the air. He then opened fire on the two women.

"From there, Polynice drove several miles to the Westgate Lakes Resort and Spa, where he shot Pierre's friend, 31-year-old Jean Guerline. The housekeeper was on her way into work when she was confronted by Polynice. Authorities say the woman is expected to survive."


From SunSentinel.com...

Actor Jumps To His Death After Killing Landlady


"LOS ANGELES, CA — An actor whose character died a violent death on the TV drama Sons of Anarchy plunged to his death in a driveway after apparently killing his landlady and attacking neighbours near Hollywood, police said Thursday.

"Johnny Lewis, who played Kip (Half-Sack) Epps in the FX show, is the only suspect in the death of 81-year-old Catherine Davis, according to Los Angeles police.

"Authorities found them dead Wednesday morning after neighbours reported a woman screaming inside the home, Cmdr. Andrew Smith said.

"The home was ransacked, glass was shattered and a dead cat was found.

"Neighbours said a man had jumped a fence and assaulted a painter and homeowner next door.

"The body of Lewis, 28, was found in the driveway. He could have jumped or fallen from the roof, garage or balcony, or tumbled down stairs from a patio area, Smith said.

"It appears Davis had been beaten, Smith added.

"Because of the circumstances, investigators were checking whether Lewis was on drugs or had mental health issues, Smith said.

"Lewis' attorney Jonathan Mandel said the actor did have serious mental issues that seemed to surface fairly recently. He said Lewis' parents and others had tried desperately to help him.

"`Johnny Lewis had a lot of problems, a lot of mental problems,` Mandel said by phone Thursday. `I recommended treatment for him but he declined it.`"


From the Calgary Herald...

UPDATE:

09/28/2012 — Johnny Lewis Murder-Suicide: The Scientology Connection...

Wednesday, September 26, 2012

Family Of Four Found Dead


"HERNDON, VA — A mom and dad and their two children were found dead in their northern Virginia home yesterday after concerned co-workers of one of the parents called police. Homicide detectives on the scene said there was no threat to public safety, indicating that the deaths could be murder-suicide. The two boys in the family, one in high school and the other in middle school, weren't in class this week. The family had recently attended a community picnic in their Herndon neighborhood, and showed no signs of any problem, said a neighbor.

"The father, who had lived on the block with his wife for 28 years, would frequently be on his front porch waving to cars, and the boys often played soccer in the front yard, he added. Any violence in the home seems `completely out of character,` another neighbor told a CBS reporter, wiping away tears. The town close to Washington, DC, is considered safe, but there were three murder-suicide cases in the area in the month of July."


From newser.com...

"Bless This Home"


"CAVE SPRING, VA — A burst of gunfire broke the calm of a leafy Cave Spring neighborhood Wednesday, aimed at a woman who twice sought court protection from the man police said pulled the trigger, killing her and then himself.

"The commotion alarmed nearby neighbors, who dialed Roanoke County police at 8:42p.m. Officers arrived in the 5900 block of Sunnycrest Road within minutes, but remained for hours, analyzing the scene to determine what had happened.

"Police said their investigation indicated that Ronald W. Billings, 49, had fired the shot that killed his estranged wife, Sandra Kay Edwards, 61, then turned the gun on himself. At the time, the couple was still awaiting a hearing in Roanoke County Circuit Court to finalize a divorce, records show.

"Thursday morning revealed the extent of the violence. There was a bullet hole near the front door and in a window, and the glass in a storm door was shattered. Next to it, a simple sign read `Bless this home.`

"The incident drew a slew of officers to the area, including the Roanoke County SWAT team, police said. Lt. Chuck Mason said officers were able at about 1 a.m. to safely enter the home, where the pair was found dead."


From The Roanoke Times...

Monday, September 24, 2012

Night Out Ends With Attempted Murder/Suicide


"BERMUDA RUN, NC — Davie County investigators are trying to figure out why a Marine based at Camp Lejeune shot his wife in front of his father's house in Bermuda Run and then killed himself Sunday morning.

"Sarah Browder Harris, 29, was in intensive care at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center on Sunday night. Although she was in critical condition, she is expected to live, said Davie County Sheriff Andy Stokes.

"Kirk Walter Harris, 26, of Jacksonville was found dead in the driveway of 675 Riverbend Drive. Harris' father, Dean Harris, and his wife live at the house, which is in the gated community of Bermuda Run Country Club. They were not home at the time.

"Stokes said Kirk and Sarah Harris had returned to Bermuda Run about 1:30 a.m. after an evening out. A woman who was with the couple when they came home witnessed a dispute, authorities said. She left before the shooting, which happened about 5:30 a.m.

"Stokes said investigators are still trying to piece together what happened, but the evidence shows Sarah Harris was standing in a yard across the street when her husband, standing in the street, fired a 40-caliber automatic handgun at her.

"Sarah Harris was struck twice, in the lower part of her face and the upper part of her chest, Stokes said.

"Stokes said Kirk Harris apparently walked about 15 feet into the driveway of his father's house and shot himself in the head."


Source: Winston-Salem Journal...

Woman Survives Being Shot Several Times


"LADSON, SC — A Ladson woman was shot several times and a man was found dead in Ladson. Authorities are investigating the incident as an aggravated assault - suicide, according to a police report.

"Dorchester County Deputies are investigating the shooting that happened around 930pm Saturday night in Ladson’s Tranquil Hill Plantation subdivision.

"Responding deputies found a woman lying in her driveway on 9104 Parlor Drive with two gunshot wounds to her face, and one in her arm. She told police that she lived at the residence and that Michael Mims, her husband, shot her for no reason and was still inside the location. EMS and Fire crews arrived on scene and transported her to MUSC.

"Authorities then found Michael Mims with a gunshot wound to his head and ruled it a suicide."


From WCBD-TV...

Man Shoots Himself After Stabbing Girlfriend To Death


"BULLHEAD CITY, AZ — Police believe a Bullhead City man stabbed his girlfriend to death before shooting himself with a gun early Sunday morning in what is being called a murder-suicide.

"According to Emily Fromelt, spokeswoman for Bullhead City Police Department, officers were dispatched to the 2400 block of Ripple Drive around 4 a.m. for a report of a suicide. Officers arrived and found Todd Paul Foster, 27, of Bullhead City, with a gunshot wound to the head.

"Reports state Foster came into his father’s residence, allegedly grabbed a gun from his father’s room and shot himself once.

"Officers, familiar with Foster, proceeded to Foster’s residence in the 1000 block of Baseline Road to conduct a welfare check on his girlfriend, Shannon Marie Keen, 36, of Bullhead City. When police arrived, they found Keen stabbed to death inside the residence.

"`Evidence suggests Foster stabbed his girlfriend during an altercation shortly before arriving at his father’s residence, where he then shot himself,` added Fromelt.

"Foster was transported by Bullhead City Fire paramedics to Western Arizona Regional Medical Center, where he was then airlifted to Sunrise Hospital in Las Vegas. It was there Foster was pronounced dead by hospital personnel.

"Fromelt added that Foster and Keen had a history of domestic violence, including an arrest in late June for suspicion of assault, disorderly conduct and criminal damage to property."


Source: Mohave Daily News...

Sunday, September 23, 2012

Heated Argument Turns Into Tragic Situation


"TAYLORSVILLE, UT — A woman was shot to death early Saturday by her live-in boyfriend, who later fled their home and killed himself on the playground of an elementary school, police said.

"`This was a very, very tragic situation,` said Unified Police Department detective Levi Hughes.

"Alida Dalton and Zak Cabell were arguing at their home, 3000 South Valley Heights Drive in a heated exchange that prompted a female roommate to call police just after 2 a.m., Hughes said.

"`She was very scared, afraid for her safety and whispering on the phone,` he said.

"Officers tried to make contact with anyone who may have been inside, but were met with silence. When they entered the home, the found the body of a Dalton, 28, who had been shot and later died from her injuries.

"While still on the scene, officers heard a gunshot and tracked it to a nearby elementary school, Arcadia, where they found the body of her boyfriend, Cabell, 30. He died of a single, self-inflicted gunshot wound.

"Hughes said officers are still investigating the sequence of events that led to the shooting, but added, "it was an argument that clearly got of hand."

"Granite School District released a statement to reassure parents of students who attend Arcada Elementary School, where the man shot himself."


From KSL.com...

Man Comes Home To Horrifying Scene


"CLEARWATER, FL — A Florida mom killed her two young sons before hanging herself with an electrical cord tied to a ceiling fan, cops said.

"Dawn Brown, 34, and her two boys—identified by a friend of the family as 5-year-old Zayden and 9-year-old Zander—were found dead Saturday in their Clearwater home, the Tampa Tribune reported.

"Her husband Murphy, 36, came home to the horrifying scene early in the morning. He sent family friend William Lavold a text message that `basically said that his wife killed his children and he needed my help,` Lavold said.

"Just days earlier, Dawn Brown pleaded not guilty to a charge of welfare fraud stemming from an arrest last year.

"Lavold said the arrest was `ground zero` for her life falling apart.

"`Up until then, everything was perfect,` he said. `She had a great life planned ahead of her.`

"Those plans included becoming a schoolteacher, but she stopped taking classes to stay at home with her sons.

"The family struggled to get by on the husband’s sole income from fixing cars, but their home went into foreclosure at least three times—most recently in February.

"Cops didn’t reveal how the two boys died, or why they believe Dawn Brown killed them. She didn’t leave a suicide note, police said."


Source: NYDailyNews.com...

Dead Couple Had Violent Past


"COVINGTON, LA — A woman and her husband are dead following an apparent murder-suicide at their home near Covington late Friday, investigators said.

"The bodies of Caroline Crockett Darby, 42, and Adrian Darby, 46, were discovered in their home, said Melanie Comeaux, executive director of St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office.

"Sheriff’s Sgt. Sean Beavers said deputies found the couple in a bedroom and that there were signs of foul play and `indications of a potential murder-suicide.`

"An autopsy is scheduled for Monday.

"The Darbys’ relationship had seen violence in the past. Caroline Darby successfully petitioned for a restraining order against her husband in February 2004, St. Tammany court records show. She alleged that he had previously threatened to kill her.

"Adrian Darby later pleaded guilty to domestic abuse battery and was placed on probation for six months, records show."


From The Advocate...

No Known Motive In Death Of Pair


"NEW CANAAN, CT — The two people found dead Friday inside a New Canaan residence died as a result of murder/sucide, according to Capt. Leon Krolikowski of the New Canaan Police Department.

"On Friday, at approximately 2:40 pm., New Canaan officers responded to 131 Park St. after a report of gunshots.

"Upon arrival at the residence, officers found a deceased man and woman. The victims are identified as James Owen, 48, and Billie D. Faigout-Owen, 52.

"A preliminary investigation shows that James Owen shot Faigout-Owen before shooting himself, Krolikowski said in a press release. Both decedents were taken to the Chief Medical Examiners Office for autopsy.

"No additional information was released."


From TheHour.com...

Two Dead, One Injured In Botched Double Murder/Suicide


"ALTURAS, CA — For at least the third time in recent days a California man shot and killed his companion before ending his own life. Police say Jim Sims III, 53, of Alturas, shot his wife Marilyn, 51, as well as a 14-year-old juvenile later identified as their son.

"Officers received a call at about 5:45 PM on Thursday and responded to a home on the 1200 block of East Ninth Street. They spotted Jim Sims leaving the home in a vehicle and followed him to a church parking lot on West Carlos Street. Sims exited the vehicle and shot himself. He later died at a Redding hospital.

"Police found Mrs. Sims in the home. She later died at Modoc Medical Center.

"The young boy is expected to survive."


From CRIME VOICE...

Thursday, September 20, 2012

Police Suspect Dispute Over Dog In Death Of Pair


"ROANOKE COUNTY, VA — The Roanoke County Police Department is investigating a murder-suicide.

"The incident happened Wednesday evening on the 5900 block of Sunnycrest Road.

"The department got a call about shots fired at 8:42 p.m. Wednesday.

"Investigators say a man shot his estranged girlfriend, and then turned the weapon on himself. The man and woman were both dead when police got there.

"Their names have not been released.

"Neighbors say the couple was separated for over a year, and believe Wednesday night's dispute was over a dog the couple shared when they were together."


From WDBJ7.com...

Factory Workers Get Unexpected Day Off


"DETROIT, MI — An employee at a Chrysler Group LLC automotive plant died Thursday morning after an altercation in the facility, and the auto worker suspected of stabbing his colleague to death was found dead at a nearby park, police said.

"The suspect was found by authorities midmorning Thursday on Belle Isle, the city's 982-acre island park in the Detroit River not far from Chrysler's Jefferson North Assembly Plant. He died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound, police said.

"Earlier in the day, two employees at the auto maker's Jefferson North plant were involved in some kind of fight inside the plant, the auto maker said. One employee was stabbed and died at the plant. A spokeswoman for the Detroit Police Department said the two men had a history of not getting along.

"As a result of the death at the plant, the auto maker suspended production and released its employees. The plant on the city's east side has 3,075 hourly and salaried workers on two shifts.

"Chrysler's Jefferson North plant was built in 1991 and now makes two sport-utility vehicles: the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango."


From The Wall Street Journal...

Couple Had No Previous History With Law Enforcement


"SIMSBURY, CT — State and local police are investigating the death of a man and a woman at Simsbury apartment complex on Wednesday night.

"Dispatchers received a 911 call around 8:30 p.m. from a woman reporting a domestic dispute at the Meadows housing complex on 71 Hopmeadow Street and officers responded within five minutes, police said.

"Original reports were that police responded to a report of a shooting at the home and arrived just after 9 p.m.

"When they went inside the apartment, they found a man and woman dead.

"A 1-year-old child was also found inside the home and was not injured.

"The child is in the custody of the state Department of Children and Families, according to police.

"Police said there is no history of responding to this residence.

"State Police Major Crimes Unit is assisting in the investigation.

"Authorities have not released the names of the victims."


From NBC Connecticut...

Botched Murder/Suicide Sends Two To Hospital


"CHESTERFIELD, VA — A man has been arrested in connection with a stabbing incident, in which both he and a female victim were injured.

"Police arrived to a residence in the 4900 block of Brickhaven Drive at 4:30 AM on September 15, to find the female suffering from knife wounds.

"Officers then saw a man exiting the residence, who has since been identified as 37-year-old Spencer L. Ford of Chesterfield. Ford was also suffering from knife wounds.

"Both Ford and the woman were transported to VCU Medical Center with life threatening injuries. Both are expected to recover.

"Ford faces Aggravated Malicious Wounding charges in the case, which has been classified as a domestic-related attempted murder-suicide."


From WRIC.com...

Wednesday, September 19, 2012

1 Teenager Dead, 1 Wounded In Attempted Murder/Suicide


"SCOTTSBORO, AL — Police are treating a shooting that killed one teenager and injured another as an attempted murder-suicide.

"`On the surface it appears that way,` Chief Ralph Dawe said.

"`At this point in time we are trying to figure out one, why, and two, who did what?

"`We’re still in the process of that.`

"Scottsboro Police said 17-year-old Tessa Groves, of Woodville, died from a gunshot wound Tuesday evening at a home on 506 Quincy Street.

"Her boyfriend, Jonathan Nicholson, lived at the house with his father.

"Officers responded to a call at 9:09 p.m. about a shooting at the home, and found the 19-year-old Nicholson in the driveway, bleeding heavily from a gunshot wound to his face.

"`He was given medical attention and then transferred to Huntsville Hospital for medical treatment,` Dawe said.

"`Upon closer inspection of the home in our investigation we found the deceased.`

"She was inside the home, dead from a gunshot.

"Groves was a student at Woodville High School, and also took cosmetology classes as part of a trade and technical skills program.

"Dawe said police sifted through evidence but found no indication of an outside shooter.

"`We’ve dealt with this household, not just him, in the past,` Chief Dawe said.

"Police confirmed they arrested Jonathan Nicholson in May for third degree assault."


From WHNT.com...

Firefighters Find Bodies & Gun In Burning Home


"PHOENIX, AZ — A deadly house fire Tuesday morning is believed to be a murder-suicide, according to Phoenix police.

"The bodies of an elderly couple were found inside a home at 17842 N. 41st Dr., between Bell Road and Union Hills Drive, just before 8:30 a.m.

"When firefighters arrived, they found smoke billowing from the roof.

"The fire appeared to have started in six different areas of the home, firefighters said.

"`They (firefighters) met up with several small fires within the house, all within different points of origin,` Phoenix Police Sgt. Trent Crump said. `Clearly deliberate fires (were) set. On top of that, there were also some accelerant found inside the home.`

"The bodies of a man and woman were initially detected inside a back bedroom by thermal imaging cameras. They were both shot dead with the weapon lying on the bed between them.

"`They were good neighbors,` Sharon Smith said.

"Smith lives across the street and smelled the smoke from her backyard.

"`I cried. I was in shock, I mean, what do you do? It's a horrible thing to hear. It's just devastating to hear that kind of stuff. How does anyone feel - you wish you were there. I saw the smoke and that was my first reaction: Where are they?`

"The names of the victims have not been released, but friends of the couple who lives in the home said they had recently fallen on hard times.

"`There's always an answer for something. Doing this is not an answer. It leaves their family members devastated and they're left with wondering why,` Smith said.

"At this point, officers believe it was a murder-suicide, but who shot who is still under investigation."


From kpho.com...

Deputies Find Baby And Teenager With Dead Couple


"SHAFTER, CA — Kern County investigators believe a man and woman were killed Monday night in a murder-suicide near Shafter.

"The pair were found shot to death on the 29900 block of Orange Street. The coroner's office later identified the woman as 32-year-old Patricia Flores, but the man's name was withheld.

"The sheriff's office said Tuesday that the pair were in a dating relationship and had a 9-month-old child. A 15-year-old boy was also at the home when the shooting happened, but the sheriff's office didn't clarify his relationship to the man and woman.

"The couple lived in the home for around six months, the sheriff's office said. During that time, deputies were called to the home eight times for peace disturbances and theft reports."


From bakersfieldnow.com...

Tuesday, September 18, 2012

Police Find Note And Gun With Bodies


"LOS ANGELES, CA — A 72-year-old man shot and killed his 52-year-old ex-wife Monday at her home in the Mid-Wilshire neighborhood of Los Angeles before fatally shooting himself, authorities said.

"Los Angeles police officers were called about 2 a.m. to a residence in the 1000 block of South Lucerne Boulevard, Det. Gus Villanueva said.

"They discovered the bodies inside the home as well as a note and a gun. The case is being investigated as a murder-suicide, Villanueva said.

"The names of the gunman and the victim were not released pending notification of next of kin, said Lt. Fred Corral of the Los Angeles County coroner’s investigative division."


Source: Los Angeles Times...

Man Returns Home To Find Wife, Son Shot


"MAGALIA, CA — Last Thursday's shooting that left a mother and son dead has been ruled a murder-suicide by the Butte County Sheriff's Office.

"Investigators now say that Travis Leroux, 25, shot his mother Kelli, 50, once in the back of the head, and then himself in the chest with a 12-gauge shotgun.

"Both the mother and son were found by the father, Thomas Leroux Thursday afternoon after he returned to his Fir Haven Drive home after work.

"Travis was still alive when deputies and medics arrived, but died shortly afterwards. However, investigators say Travis told his father and a deputy that he killed his mother before he died.

"It is still unclear what caused the son to kill his mother and himself, however, authorities say it appears Travis Leroux had been suffering from some sort of mental illness."


From khsltv.com...

"Please, Just Walk Away"


"TAMARAC, FL — A 37-year-old Tamarac woman was listed in critical condition late Monday after being hit by a shotgun blast in a possible attempted murder-suicide, according to the Broward Sheriff's Office.

"Deborah Anne Shannon was found wounded in an apartment on the 8300 block of Sands Point Boulevard about midnight Friday. Her estranged boyfriend Mario Rosdao Jr., 37, was found dead of an apparent self-inflicted shotgun wound, according to the investigative report.

"Neighbor Donnette Kalawan called 911 after hearing the commotion next door. She said she witnessed part of the struggle between Rosado and Shannon prior to the shootings.

"`I was in between them both. I kept saying, 'Mario, please, please, just walk away,'` Kalawan said. `I could see the fear in [Shannon's] eyes.`

"Records show the couple had been in court for domestic violence and child support cases. Rosado had an arrest record that included aggravated assault with a weapon, marijuana possession and commercial littering, according to the FDLE.

"Shannon has undergone at least two surgeries since the shooting, investigators said."


Source: SunSentinel.com...

Family Feud Leaves Two Dead, One Critical


"FREDERICKSBURG, VA — A triple shooting on Monday afternoon has left two dead in Spotsylvania County.

"Police are calling this scene a murder/suicide between family members, but have no idea yet what might have sparked the violence.

"Spotsylvania Sheriff’s Office Captain Mike Harvey said the shooting occurred at 1:19 p.m., in the 8300 block of McLaws Lane. When they arrived on scene, police discovered two people dead in the driveway, of apparent gunshot wounds.

"Police have said that all victims are related.

"Another victim was found at the next door neighbor’s home. She sustained injuries to her elbow and abdomen and is recovering at Mary Washington University hospital.

"Police identified the 43-year old man, and suspected shooter as David Anderson. His mother, who was in her 70s, has been identified by police as Jean Anderson.

"The woman in the hospital is the daughter of Anderson. She has been identified as 51-year old Laura Reeves, the sister of the alleged shooter. She is in stable but critical condition.

"Police said that all three, plus Reeve’s husband, lived in the same home together.

"Police have recovered one handgun and one rifle from the scene."


From WTVR...

Monday, September 17, 2012

High School Coach And Girlfriend Found Dead


"SACRAMENTO, CA — A man and his girlfriend were found shot to death inside a Natomas home Sunday morning.

"Sacramento police were called to the home on the 2900 block of Holdrege Way at 8:42 a.m. by a family member concerned they had not heard from their relatives since Friday, said Sacramento police Officer Michelle Gigante.

"Gigante said officers entered the home and found a man in his 30s and woman in her 20s dead from gunshot wounds.

"Monday, Gigante said it appeared the man, identified as Grant Union High School assistant football coach Edward Coleman, 36, of Sacramento, shot Luv Catera Land, 28, of Sacramento, before turning the gun on himself.

"The last time relatives heard from the couple was Friday night, Gigante said. Detectives think an argument between the couple escalated into the shooting.

"The gun believed to be connected to the incident was recovered at the scene."


From News10.net...

Five Year Old Finds Bodies


"ROBBINSDALE, MN — The fatal shooting of two people in a Robbinsdale home last week was a case of murder-suicide with a man killing a woman and then himself, authorities said Monday.

"Authorities on Monday also released the identities of the two found dead in the home on Friday in the 3900 block of Xenia Avenue N.

"Jennifer M. Smith, 27, was shot numerous times shortly before 9:30 a.m. Friday, according to the Hennepin County medical examiner's office.

"Police identified the shooter as Ronald H. West, 73, of Brooklyn Park and explained that he and Smith had known each other for at least 10 years. The relationship wasn't necessarily `romantic or anything like that,` said Police Chief Steve Smith.

"The bodies were discovered in the home shortly before 9:30 a.m. Friday by the woman's 5-year-old son, who then went to a neighbor and said his mother was not moving, police said.

"`We're going to label this as a murder-suicide,` Chief Smith said. `[West] went over there with the intention of shooting and killing Ms. Smith" and then fatally shot himself.

"`Their relationship just recently wasn't the best,` Chief Smith added. `He confronted her over some issues they had.`

"A gun was recovered at the scene, the chief said.

"Jennifer Smith is survived by three children."


From StarTribune.com...

"It Was A Children Exchange Gone Bad"


"YAKIMA, WA — A Sunnyside woman who was shot Sunday night by her estranged husband before he killed himself remains at Seattle’s Harborview Medical Center following surgery.

"Her condition was not immediately available by mid-morning today.

"Margarita Lepe, 36, was picking up her three children at the man’s house when the couple got into a fight and he shot her then killed himself, according to a news release from the Yakima County Sheriff’s Office.

"`It was a children exchange gone bad,` said sheriff’s Detective Sgt. Robert Udell. `After he shot his wife, he took the kids out to the garage. I’m not sure how many times she was shot, but it’s possibly more than once.`

"Jose Angel Lepe-Garcia, 36, was dead at the scene.

"Both he and his estranged wife were found shortly after 6 p.m. Sunday in the same bedroom of the house where Lepe-Garcia lived, in the 300 block of Grandview Pavement Road, about two miles west of Grandview, Udell said.

"They had been estranged about two months, he said.

"Three children — a 13-year-old girl, 10-year-old boy and 4-year-old girl — were at home at the time of the shooting.

"The oldest called police."


Source: yakima-herald.com...

Roommates Found Dead In Apartment Complex


"FISHERSVILLE, VA — Two adult women were found shot to death in a Fishersville apartment complex early Sunday in what is described as a murder-suicide, according to the Augusta County Sheriff’s Office.

"Investigator Paul McCormick of the Sheriff’s Office said the two women were roommates, and had known each other for two years. One of the women was 22 and the other 23, according to the Sheriff’s Office.

"Their bodies were found Sunday morning at an apartment complex on 9 Bolton Place off Longmeadow Road in Fishersville.

"McCormick said both women died of gunshot wounds. Another roommate notified authorities.

"The call regarding the deaths came to police around 8:13 a.m. Sheriff’s Investigator Brian Jenkins said the roommate heard noise, and made the discovery of the shootings when checking to see what happened.

"The investigators also took one of the people at the scene back to the Sheriff’s Office in Verona to interview.

"The investigation by both the Augusta County Sheriff’s Office and the Virginia State Police was continuing Sunday.

"`We are still interviewing and still actively involved in the investigation,` McCormick said.

"McCormick said a total of five people lived in the apartment, and said four were present at the time of the discovery of the deaths."


From The News Virginian...

Saturday, September 15, 2012

"They Seemed To Get Along Fine"


"BELLWOOD, VA — Chesterfield County police identified a man and woman found dead yesterday in what investigators believe was a murder-suicide.

"A man and a teenage boy were throwing a football yesterday afternoon in the 3000 block of Rycliff Avenue when the man noticed Donna Cheatham lying dead in a driveway between two cars outside the home of David Brogdon, neighbors said.

"Police were summoned to the home about 5:30 p.m.

"Brogdon was found dead inside his home.

"Police said Brogdon and Cheatham, of Chase City, each had been shot, but authorities did not release further information about what transpired.

"Brogdon’s neighbor in the brick duplex, Murial Myers, said Brogdon worked as a truck driver, was a widower and had been living alone and dating Cheatham.

"Myers said she did not hear any gunfire. Police also did not say when they believe the shooting occurred.

"`They seemed to get along fine,` Myers said. `I never heard an argument or a cross word between them.`

"Another friend of Brogdon, Cris Anderson, said, `He was a good guy; he was friendly.`

"`I can’t imagine Dave killing her,` she added, her voice breaking. `I just can’t.`"


From the Richmond Times-Dispatch...

Daughter Finds Elderly Parents Dead


"CARROLLTON, KYPolice responded to a residence Friday after an elderly couple was found dead in an apparent murder-suicide.

"Police received a call at 8:39 a.m. that Elmer G. Anderson, 80, and Louise Anderson, 83, of 207 Park Ave., had been found dead by their daughter, Carrollton Police Chief Mike Willhoite said.

"A police investigation at the scene determined that Elmer Anderson shot his wife, Roberta, in the head before turning the gun on himself, a press release said.

"Willhoite said the couple's daughter, Rhonda Webb, decided to check on her parents Friday morning after several relatives had been unsuccessful in making contact with the couple Thursday night. The Andersons had spoken to family earlier in the day Thursday.

"Both of the Andersons had significant health problems, Willhoite said Friday, and the couple's health had continued to decline recently. No other problems between the couple were known to police.

"`This is not a couple that had any issues,` Willhoite said. `There were no (domestic) problems.`

"An investigation is ongoing, Willhoite said, but there will not be autopsies."


From MadisonCourier.com...

Friday, September 14, 2012

One Dead, One Critical In Stadium Shooting


"KANSAS CITY, MO — A gunman shot a Kansas City Royals parking lot employee Friday afternoon outside Kauffman Stadium and then killed himself.

"The victim was working in Lot A about 3:20 p.m. when the attacker, believed to be her boyfriend or former boyfriend, approached with a gun, Kansas City police said.

"The gunman shot her once in the abdomen and returned to his car a short distance away, where he shot and killed himself. He died at the scene. The woman was in critical condition and underwent surgery at a hospital.

"Both the gunman and victim were in their 40s, police said. They said the victim had a day job and worked at the stadium to supplement her income.

"The parking lots were closed temporarily as stadium workers began to arrive for Friday night’s game, but the game was played as scheduled."


From KansasCity.com...

Officer Killed, Shooter's Death Ruled Suicide


"PHILADELPHIA, PA — A gunman who killed a suburban canine unit police officer who had responded to a car accident ambushed him from an elevated vantage point and later committed suicide amid an ensuing police manhunt, authorities said Friday.

"Plymouth Township Officer Bradley Fox, a former Marine, was shot in the head while responding to what began as a three-car accident around 5:45 p.m. Thursday.

"Investigators said officers conducting traffic control at the scene spotted a speeding sport utility vehicle and Fox and other officers began a pursuit.

"Eventually, the officers found the SUV abandoned and Fox and his dog chased the driver into an industrial area alongside the Schuylkill River Trail, Montgomery County District Attorney Risa Vetri Ferman and Plymouth Township police Chief Joe Lawrence said in a statement Friday. Responding officers later found Fox in the grass between the popular recreational trail and nearby train tracks, with a gunshot wound to the head. He later was pronounced dead.

"Investigators determined the SUV driver, 44-year-old Andrew Charles Thomas, fired at least four shots at Fox from an elevated point where the officer could not see him.

"Police had engaged in a massive manhunt for Thomas, shutting down roads and suspending a regional rail line in the area, 15 miles northwest of Philadelphia. When they found Thomas, he had two gunshot wounds to the chest and was dead, authorities said. His death has been ruled a suicide. Police said the SUV he was driving had been stolen.

"At the time of the shooting, authorities said, Thomas was on probation in Montgomery County after pleading guilty to a forgery charge in May involving $140 worth of counterfeit grocery store gift certificates.

"Fox's dog is receiving veterinary care after suffering a graze wound."


From SFGate...

Thursday, September 13, 2012

Police Suspect Murder/Suicide But Can't ID Perp


"SACRAMENTO, CA — The Sacramento County Coroner's Office has identified one of two people found dead in an apparent murder-suicide in a Colonial Heights home Wednesday as 41-year-old Kassandra Atterberry.

"Atterberry was a Fresno resident, according to the coroner's office.

"Sacramento police detective said today that they suspect both people died in a murder-suicide. However, they cannot yet say which person was the aggressor, said Officer Doug Morse.

"Morse also declined to discuss manner of death. The Coroner's office also did not have a cause of death, pending autopsies scheduled for Friday.

"The bodies were discovered by a family member who had not talked to the man and woman, described by police as being in a dating relationship, in a few days and was concerned about their welfare, Morse said. The relative knocked on doors and windows at the home on the 5100 block of 15th Avenue and then found the bodies inside the home.

"That relative called police.

"The man found dead has not been identified. Police described him as being in his 40s."


Source: Modesto Bee...

"Something's Not Right With This Guy"


"PHOENIX, AZ — Phoenix police are trying to find exactly what led to what they believe is a murder-suicide in a residential complex near the Phoenix-Scottsdale border.

"Investigators said a man and woman were found dead in a condominium near 68th Street and Chauncey Lane, just south of the Loop 101 in north Phoenix.

"Police said they believe the deaths happened Tuesday night or early Wednesday morning.

"Neighbors said an older man and younger woman lived there.

"Neighbors said they heard nothing unusual Tuesday night, but that the couple was often heard arguing and seen outside their balcony smoking.

"Neighbors also said the couple moved in about a month ago and that police had been to the condo before.

"`You know, to be honest with you, it's one of those gut feelings that you have,` a neighbor said. `The moment that I saw him, I just had that sinking feeling in my stomach from the moment they walked in. And every time I saw him, you just had that feeling that you know something's not right with this guy.`

"Police began the investigation after the woman's family hadn't heard from her and asked for someone to check and see if she was OK."


From KPHO.com...

Wednesday, September 12, 2012

Confrontation In Hair Salon Leaves Two Dead


"SIOUX FALLS, SD — Worried about an escalating conflict, Amanda Connors drove up to the door of the hair salon she managed and confronted her employee's boyfriend, who had just kidnapped his two kids after being hit with a protection order and domestic violence arrest.

"The heroic decision cost Connors her life, but the mother's was spared.

"Police said Connors was leaving the Sioux Falls salon Tuesday afternoon when she saw Tyrone Leeon Smith, 38, with the kids in the parking lot. She phoned the store from her car to warn her employees, including Smith's girlfriend, then pulled her car up. Smith exchanged words with Connors as he stood in the Cost Cutters doorway before fatally shooting Connors in the head.

"As her red sedan accelerated into a parked SUV, Smith ducked inside, fired another shot and then zip-tied his girlfriend and her three co-workers.

"A half hour later, Smith let the employees go and put a bullet in his head, police said.

"`I personally don't think his intent was to go to that scene and to kill Amanda,` said Sioux Falls police Chief Doug Barthels. `It was unfortunate that it happened the way it did.

"`Frankly, I kind of see her as a hero.`"


Source: Miami Herald...

Bodies Found During Welfare Check


"WARREN, AR — The director of the Southeast Arkansas Regional Library and his wife were found dead in their Warren home Tuesday morning, apparently from a murder-suicide.

"The bodies of Kim Patterson, 64, and his wife, Sandra, 52, were found in a sitting room off the main bedroom of their home at 316 East Cedar Street, according to Lt. Shaun Hildreth, a criminal investigator with the Warren Police Department. Mrs. Patterson had suffered a single gunshot wound to the upper torso and Mr. Patterson had sustained a gunshot wound to the head, Hildreth stated. He confirmed that a gun was found on the scene, but declined to specify what kind.

"Hildreth said that an acquaintance of the couple, who found it unusual that she had not heard from Mr. Patterson Tuesday morning and could not reach him, contacted police and asked them to check on the couple. All of the couple's vehicles were parked at the residence.

"When police arrived at 9:20 a.m., Hildreth said, they found the door unlocked and lights on inside the residence. They entered around and discovered the bodies.

"At this time, Hildreth told the Advance, police believe Mr. Patterson shot his wife then turned the gun on himself. The investigation is continuing, he said, and the bodies have been taken to the state crime lab in Little Rock."


From mymonticellonews.net...

"Simmering Dispute" Ends In Murder/Suicide


"CUBA, NY — A long-simmering dispute between next-door neighbors over parking spots on a lakeside road in Cuba ended in horror Tuesday when one neighbor opened fire on the other using multiple weapons, then shot his own dog before killing himself.

"Police said Thomas J. Jerge, 69, who lived at 30 South Shore Road, shot his neighbor, Susan Babcock, 61, Tuesday afternoon as she sat in her car.

"`She was about to go pick up her husband from work,` said Cuba Police Officer Jim Galatio.

"For at least a year, Babcock and her husband had been feuding with Jerge over parking and the placement of trash cans. The Babcocks spent their summers in the lakeside house and Jerge lived at his house year-round but also had a seasonal camp about a mile south.

"The disputes had grown so intense that the Babcocks took out an order of protection against Jerge about a year ago when Jerge was involved in physical altercation with Babcocks' husband, Galatio said. Then sometime in late July, police said, Jerge allegedly violated the order by communicating with Susan Babcock.

"He was scheduled to appear in town court Tuesday evening to answer to that charge.

"Police believe it's possible that the impending court appearance may have triggered the murder-suicide.

"`But we'll never know,` Galatio said.

"Cuba police were joined by state police, including the state police SWAT team, aviation unit and K-9 unit; Allegany County Sheriff's Office, including its SWAT team; Friendship police; Cuba fire and Cuba ambulance squads as they searched for Jerge.

"They eventually found Jerge's body at about 9:30 p.m. in the cabin. He had died of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. They also found his dog dead of multiple gunshot wounds."


From The Buffalo News...

UPDATE:

09/12/2014 — Discovery Channel to dramatize this incident...

Tuesday, September 11, 2012

Shopping Center Shooter Found Dead


"RALEIGH, NC — Police in Raleigh have released the names of a woman who was shot and killed at a shopping center, as well as the suspect investigators say killed himself.

"Police spokesman Jim Sughrue said Tuesday the woman was 41-year-old Kathleen Ann Bertrand of Cary.

"He says the suspect in her shooting was her ex-husband, 42-year-old Christopher John Bertrand of Hoover, Ala. Police say he shot himself after killing her.

"Kathleen Bertrand was shot shortly after she arrived for work Monday at a shopping center. Workers in a store say they saw the couple in the parking lot. They say they soon heard gunshots from the store where the woman worked.

"Schools in the area were placed on lockdown. Officers responded to another shooting four hours later and found Christopher Bertrand dead."


From WCNC...

Monday, September 10, 2012

Two Dead After Domestic Disturbance


"SEBRING, FL — The Highlands County Sheriff's Office is investigating a domestic incident that apparently ended in a murder-suicide on Sunday.

"According to a press release, deputies were dispatched to 3529 Cemetery Road at around 1:30 p.m. Sunday for a domestic disturbance. Upon arrival, deputies found that an altercation had taken place and two people were severely injured.

"Susie Ann Ahmed, 37, was pronounced dead at the scene by responding EMS personnel. Berthony Sainjerlus, 27, was transported to the hospital and subsequently died of injuries sustained during the incident.

"Causes of death of both victims will be determined by the District 10 Medical Examiner's Office. Detectives are continuing to investigate this incident however there are no suspects at large at this time.

"`Detectives are working this incident as an apparent murder-suicide,` Chief Deputy Mark Schrader said."


From sunnews.com...

Hole From Stray Bullet Leads To Scene Of Murder/Suicide


"TOPEKA, KS — Police have identified the two people found dead at the Pines Apartment Complex, which has been confirmed as a murder suicide.

"They have been identified as 22-year-old Kahlyn Heine and 26-year-old Jeremiah Campbell, both of Topeka.

"Authorities say Campbell was the shooter.

"Topeka Police are still investigating the two deaths. Officers say they were called around 9:30 Saturday morning (9/8), to The Pines Apartments at 238 SW Gage Blvd., regarding vandalism.

"Police say a woman had found a bullet hole in the wall of her apartment. Law enforcement officials on the scene were led to an adjacent apartment, where they found two individuals dead.

"Officials say the couple was out with friends hour before the shootings."


From WIBW.com...

Killer Found Hanging In Tree


"DANIA BEACH, FL — A man found hanging from a tree in Greenbelt Park on Sunday morning apparently first killed his girlfriend before turning to suicide, authorities said.

"The body of Louise Attardi-Cramer, 50, dead from blunt force trauma, was discovered in her bedroom early Sunday, said Keyla Concepcion, a spokeswoman for the Broward Sheriff's Office.

"About four hours later, Michael Kanuf, 49, was found by a couple taking a morning stroll through a secluded area of the park adjacent to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, Concepcion said.

"Police say Kanuf left a note outside a relative's home admitting to the crime and saying that he was going to commit suicide.

"After receiving a call at about 6:30 a.m. requesting that the Sheriff's Office perform a welfare check of Attardi-Cramer, police found her body in her home in the 5300 block of Southwest 29th Way, Concepcion said.

"Police spent the next several hours, Concepcion said, searching for Kanuf, the father of Attardi-Cramer's teenage son.

"When the couple made the grisly discovery in the park, they called 911. The body was confirmed to be Kanuf, Concepcion said."


Source: Sun-Sentinel.com...

Two Dead In Early Morning Shooting


"SOUTH HUTCHINSON, KS — South Hutchinson Police Department responded to a report of gunshots at a local residence about 2:30 a.m. today.

"Sheriff Randy Henderson reported that officers found two adults, a male and a female, inside the home at 229 E. C Ave.

"Reno County Death Scene Investigator John Tracy is on scene assisting in what is believed to be a murder/suicide.

"A neighbor, Debra Moos, who lives diagonally across from the home, said her dog woke her barking about 2:24 a.m. Sunday morning. She let the dog out, sat on the couch and heard something that sounded like a thud. She turned on the porch light, saw nothing, sat back down and suddenly heard sirens. When she looked out again emergency vehicles were coming down the streets.

"Moos described the neighborhood, just a half block from South Hutchinson Elementary, as quiet. Moos said several elderly people lived in the area.

"Investigators were still on the scene at about 8 a.m. One investigator was seen carrying two long guns from the home."


From HutchNews.com...

Sunday, September 9, 2012

Panic Alarm Brings Police To Scene Of Murder/Suicide


"BAY MINETTE, AL — The Bay Minette Police Department responded to a panic alarm from a BP gas station Sunday morning and found a murder-suicide had taken place involving Linda Diane Milstid and Mark Anthony Milstid, both 41-years-old of Perdido Ala.

"Police responded to the panic alarm at the BP gas station located off of Ala. 59 North at 8:25 a.m. Sunday, according to Bay Minette Chief of Police Michael Rowland.

"After investigation, police discovered Linda Milstid, the store clerk, had pressed the panic button when her husband Mark Milstid came into the store.

"Mark Milstid then shot his wife twice with a sawed-off shotgun before shooting himself, according to Rowland.

"`It appeared both were deceased after being on scene for a few minutes,` said Rowland. However, when police walked outside of the store, Mark Milstid got up, walked outside and collapsed in the parking lot, according to Rowland.

"Mark Milstid was taken to the North Baldwin Hospital where he later died. His wife, Linda Milstid, was pronounced dead on the scene by the Baldwin County Coroner's Office.

"`The investigation revealed the Milstid's have been in ongoing domestic disputes,` said Rowland. Linda Milstid, according to Rowland, had previously indicated she was going to file for divorce.

"While these events were unfolding at the BP station, the Nokomis Fire Department responded to a call of a trailer on fire on Coleman Road in Perdido Ala. The trailer belonged to the Milstids. `It's their trailer, but we don't know how the fire started," said Rowland, who said the trailer was `engulfed in flames.`"


From AL.com...

Bodies Found In Yard Of Rural Ohio Home


"DELTA, OH — Fulton County sheriff's deputies are investigating as a murder-suicide the deaths of a man and woman whose bodies were found Saturday in a Swancreek Township yard.

"Deputies were called to check on the welfare of a property in the 2000 block of County Road 6 about 4:05 p.m.

"When deputies arrived, they found the bodies in the yard.

"Deputies did not release the names or other information about the man and woman.

"An autopsy will be performed by the Lucas County coroner's office.

"Fulton County deputies were assisted by deputies from Henry and Lucas counties , the Ohio Highway Patrol, and the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation."


Source: the Toledo Blade...

Two Shot, No Suspects Sought


"EL JEBEL, CO — Eagle County sheriff's deputies are investigating a double shooting in which a woman was fatally shot and a man was injured near El Jebel, authorities say.

"The man was rushed to Valley View Medical Center in critical condition, said Jessie Mosher, spokeswoman for the Eagle County Sheriff's Office.

"The shootings happened around 11:30 a.m. in a home on Vega Drive in the Missouri Heights area of El Jebel, Mosher said.

"When asked whether the man had shot the woman and then turned the gun on himself, Mosher said, `We're not looking for any suspects.` The couple were married.

"Authorities are not releasing the names of the two people involved pending notification of family members."


From the Denver Post...

Saturday, September 8, 2012

Son Finds Elderly Parents Shot In Home


"JEFFERSON, LA — An elderly man shot and killed his wife before turning the gun on himself inside their home Saturday morning, deputies said.

"The couple's son discovered his parents' bodies inside their home in the 600 block of Gelpi Ave. off of Jefferson Highway shortly before 10:30 a.m., according to Col. John Fortunato, a Jefferson Parish sheriff's spokesman.

"The son called 911 and when deputies arrived on the scene, they found Frank and Clara Branighan, both 89, inside.

"Mrs. Branighan was transported to the hospital, where she was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. Her husband was dead on the scene.

"Fortunato did not release any other information on the couple or what may have led to the murder-suicide."


From WWLTV.com...

Friday, September 7, 2012

Argument Leads To Attempted Murder/Suicide


"JACKSONVILLE, FL — The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office has ruled a double shooting in Oceanway Thursday afternoon to be an attempted murder and suicide.

"Police responded to a home in the 3400 block of Hickory Landing Court after reports of gunshots, according to a news release from Jacksonville Sheriff's Office Public Information Officer Melissa Bujeda.

"Bujeda said when officers arrived at the address they found a man inside the residence who had been shot and killed.

"Police also found a woman shot inside the home, the woman was still alive Bujeda said and was taken to a local hospital.

"Bujeda said detectives determined the man, identified by police as 43-year-old Robert Griffin, was arguing with the woman when he shot her. Griffin then turned the gun on himself.

"The woman is in life-threatening condition.

"The Homicide Unit of the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office is investigating the attempted murder of the woman and Griffin's suicide.

"The female's identity is being withheld at this time, Bujeda said, due to the active investigation."


From First Coast News...

Police Find 2 Men Shot, Woman Stabbed


"SUSQUEHANNA TWP, PA — Two people are dead and a woman suffered from reported stabbing injuries after an apparent murder-suicide in Dauphin County.

"Just after 10:30 Thursday night, police responded to the home on the 3500 block of Cloverfield Road in Susquehanna Township. Neighbors [said] they heard several gunshots and a woman screaming for help outside of the home.

"When police arrived on the scene, they found the body of one man and rushed another man and woman to Harrisburg Hospital.

"Police say Thomas Kennedy, who lived at the home, and Joseph Canero of Camp Hill died from gunshot wounds. Police said they found the body of one man along the road, and then another man with gunshot wounds who later died at Harrisburg Hospital. A woman was also sent to Harrisburg Hospital for reportedly suffering stabbing wounds. Her name was not released.

"Forensics team spent much of the morning canvassing the property.

"Cops said the three people did have a relationship, but would not elaborate on what type of relationship or what led to the incident."


From WHPTV.com...

Thursday, September 6, 2012

Police: Hospital Shooting Was Murder/Suicide


"SYCAMORE, IL — The shooting deaths of a man and a woman in a Sycamore hospital Tuesday evening were an apparent murder-suicide, police said.

"Mario Engoglia, 54, a patient at Kindred Hospital, and his visitor and partner, Susan Triezenberg, 57, were both found dead shortly before 6 p.m.

"`Witnesses heard two shots just a few seconds apart and a gun was recovered from the room, from which nobody fled`, police said.

"Engoglia and Triezenberg lived together in Putnam County, Illinois in the village of Granville, police said. Detectives are considering the possibility that the killing was a so-called `mercy killing` of the sick Engoglia, a source said.

"Police declined to give details on Engoglia’s condition but Kindred Hospital is an acute care or extended care facility for patients who have serious illnesses.

"Police are waiting for the results of autopsies before commenting further.

"They are not looking for any other suspects, they said."


Source: suntimes.com...

UPDATE:

09/07/2012 — Couple were willing participants in murder/suicide...

Bodies Found In Garden


"SANTA FE, TN — Sheriff's deputies were called out to investigate what they have called the murder-suicide of a married Maury County couple.

"Officers were called to a home at 4543 Snow Creek Road in Santa Fe just before 6 p.m. Wednesday.

"Maury County Sheriff Enoch George said the husband killed his wife before taking his own life. The couple was in their mid-60s.

"The woman had been in poor health for some time. Their bodies were found in a garden behind their home. Deputies describe the incident as an unfortunate tragedy.

"Family members gathered at the home after hearing the news.

"George said the couple was well known in the community and very active in their church.

"The Sheriff's Office did not release the couple's names. "


From WTVF Nashville...

Elderly Couple Found Shot To Death


"HONEA PATH, SC — An 81-year-old Honea Path man is believed to have shot his wife and turned the gun on himself, said Anderson County Coroner Greg Shore.

"Robert Lee Beasley Jr. and his wife Bertha Beasley, 80, were both found shot to death in their bedroom, Shore said.

"The coroner said it appeared that both had significant health problems.

"Shore said it is believed to have been a murder-suicide but autopsies will be performed Friday.

"The two lived in a white home on Eastview Street in Honea Path. The shooting happened early Thursday afternoon."


From IndependentMail.com...

Woman Kills Kids, Herself Outside Ex-Boyfriend's House


"DE SOTO, MO — Authorities have identified a mother and her three young children who were found shot to death outside a rural home in De Soto.

"Sheriff Glenn Boyer said officers were called to a home in the area of Vineland Road and Wilson Hollow Road around 12:30 a.m. Thursday.

"Responding officers found three young girls deceased in a vehicle. Those girls have been identified as 22-month-old Faith Ehlen, Autumn Cochran, 10, and Alyssa Cochran, 11.

"The mother, Lisa Cochran, 32, was also found deceased near the front porch of the residence. All victims had suffered gunshot wounds to the head. Police found a 12-gauge shotgun adjacent to the mother's body.

"Officials said the estranged boyfriend of the mother lives on the property where the bodies were found. According to reports, the former boyfriend and Cochran are not allowed to have contact due to a restraining order filed by Cochran. Sheriff Boyer said the estranged boyfriend called authorities to report that Cochran's van was in his driveway when he arrived at his home early Thursday morning. The man said he did not approach the vehicle or the home, but instead, left the property and called police.

"Police later determined the caller was the father of the 22-month-old victim. He has been questioned by authorities, but Sheriff Boyer said he is not considered a suspect.

"Sheriff Boyer said after detectives reviewed the evidence, they determined that Cochran shot and killed her three daughters then turned the gun on herself."


From KMOV...

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

Homemade Gun Used In Botched Murder/Suicide


"BROOKLYN, NY — A simmering dispute between siblings turned into an attempted murder/suicide when an elderly Brooklyn man shot his brother and killed himself after a fight over the house they owned, sources said today.

"Neighbors saw a bloodied James Athanasatos, 63, stagger into the street early this morning after they heard yelling and arguing from a basement apartment along 43rd Street in Borough Park.

"Later, when police investigated the source of the dispute, they found Athanasatos’ brother, Thomas, 73, dead from a gunshot wound that was apparently self inflicted.

"Cops said James, who was shot in the neck, was rushed to a hospital with injuries that were not life-threatening. Sources said both men were shot with a homemade pellet gun.

"Neighbors said Thomas lived in the basement, but owned the house with his brother since their mother died several years ago. They rent out an upstairs apartment."


Source: NYPost.com...

Sheriff's Robot Finds 2 Dead, 1 Alive


"YUMA, AZ — The Yuma County Sheriff's Office [says] two people are dead after an apparent murder suicide.

"YCSO says it received a call in reference to a domestic violence situation Wednesday at 4:14 a.m. on the 11800 Block of Calle Gaudi in Yuma. The caller told sheriff's deputies her brother had told her he killed his girlfriend and was going to kill himself.

"When Deputies arrived a perimeter was established and a neighboring house was evacuated. After attempts to establish contact with occupants of the residence failed, a robot was sent in through the back door. The robot located a male subject inside the residence, deceased. Deputies entered and secured the residence while the robot continued ahead, searching room by room. A deceased female was located in another room of the residence.

"An 11-year-old girl was also found inside the residence with no apparent injuries. She was removed from the house and turned over to Rural Metro personnel on scene, and a victim’s advocate from Amberly’s Place.

"Sheriff’s Office Investigatrors are currently working to notify next of kin and locate a family member to take custody of the girl

"Both deceased subjects had sustained a gunshot wound. This case is currently under investigation but preliminary indications are that the female was shot by the male subject who then used the gun on himself."


From KYMA.com...

Coroner Rules Murder/Suicide


"LEAWOOD, KS — Police said they are investigating after a husband and wife were found dead in a Leawood home.

"Officers were called to a home on 2211 West 104th Street, just east of High Drive about 1:40 p.m. because a young woman said her parents weren't answering when she knocked at their door.

"Officers entered the home where they found a man and woman, both 40 to 50 years of age, dead inside. Police said the two people are husband and wife and the coroner has ruled the deaths a result of a murder-suicide caused by gunshot wounds.

"`There was no forced entry, the deceased were in the same room together, it didn't appear that there was any type of intruder,` Capt. Kevin Cauley with the Leawood Police Department said.

"The people have been identified as Elisabeth Juergens, 48, and Jurgen `Eric` Juergens, 55."


From KCTV5.com...

Tuesday, September 4, 2012

Woman Survives Attempted Double Murder/Suicide


"DISNEY, OK — Mayes County Sheriff's deputies are investigating what they are calling an apparent murder-suicide at the Full Moon Saloon in Disney early Tuesday morning.

"Two men died when a man shot his friend then turned the gun on himself.

"Mayes County investigators say the shooter also shot his wife, but she is expected to survive.

"Investigators say 46-year-old Preston `Skip` Chandler walked into the The Full Moon Saloon, the bar he owns with his wife, Melanie, shot her and a close friend, Jim Grapevine, before killing himself.

"The couple only recently opened the bar. It's so new, in fact, that they're still waiting on their liquor license.

"Mayes County investigators said Preston Chandler walked inside the bar with a .410 gauge shotgun and began making threats before opening fire on his wife and friend.

"`From what we got from her, what little bit we were able to get from her before they flew her out, is that he shot her, went outside, shot Mr. Grapevine just out the front door, and then came back in and shot himself,` said Lieutenant Alan Davis of the Mayes County Sheriff's Office.

"Both Preston Chandler and Grapevine were pronounced dead at the scene.

"Melanie Chandler was flown to a Tulsa hospital for surgery. Investigators said she made it through surgery and is expected to be fine."


From NewsOn6.com...

Family Member Finds Elderly Couple Dead


"COPLEY TOWNSHIP, OH — Police in Copley Township are investigating what the chief said appears to be a murder-suicide.

"A family member found the couple, who is in their 80s, dead in their bed Tuesday at 9:30 a.m. at their home on 1196 Aberth Drive near Henetta Avenue, according to Copley Township Police Chief Michael Mier.

"The Summit County Medical Examiner's Office said the two people found dead have been identified as 89-year-old Genevive Wellspring and her husband, 86-year-old Dayton Wellspring. Both died of a gunshot wound.

"Mier said a note was left and other information suggested that this was a murder-suicide.

"`There was some indication that at least one of the two had some health issues,` said Mier in a news release.

"Officers also recovered the handgun believed to have been used in the killings. Police are not yet saying who they believe pulled the trigger."


From newsnet5.com...

Monday, September 3, 2012

"Dating Relationship" Ends With Deadly Violence


"TAMPA, FL — A man and a woman were killed in an apparent murder-suicide Monday night in the Westshore area.

"The shooting occurred about 7:47 p.m. near the intersection of Cypress and Occident streets, west of West Shore Boulevard.

"Police have not released the names of the victims, who are both in their 20s. Police said the two were in a `dating relationship.`

"The man struck the woman with his fists, then shot her several times, police said. The man then fled a short distance in his car and shot himself in the head, police said.

"They died after one was taken to Tampa General Hospital and the other to St. Joseph's Hospital.

"`The female was shot first and then the male traveled in his car and came back to the scene,` said Tampa police Lt. Steve Lee, `and we found him with a gunshot wound.`

"Police diverted traffic near the intersection while homicide detectives investigated.

"The scene was dotted with evidence markers. An empty sedan, with the passenger door open, remained in a turn lane on Cypress Street."


From tampabay.com...