Thursday, July 31, 2014

Downsized Employee Shoots CEO, Self


"CHICAGO, IL — An executive with a Loop company, upset that he was being demoted, walked into the CEO's office on LaSalle Street this morning and shot him twice before turning the gun on himself, police said.

"Tony DeFrances, 59, was found dead of a gunshot wound to the head at the scene. His friend and CEO of ArrowStream, Steven LaVoie, 54, was shot in the head and abdomen and was in critical condition at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, authorities said.

"DeFrances had been told last Friday that he was being demoted as the company was downsizing, according to Chicago police Superintendent Garry McCarthy.

"He asked for a one-on-one meeting with LaVoie this morning in his 17th floor offices at 231 S. LaSalle St., McCarthy said. Workers heard shots around 9:55 a.m.

"`Apparently he was despondent over the fact that he got demoted,` McCarthy said of DeFrances."


Read more at the Chicago Tribune...

Police Find Gun, Question Possible Witness


"ERIE, PA — Erie police investigators are interviewing a woman who was in a Liberty Street apartment where a man and woman died of gunshot wounds this morning.

"The victims, a 62-year-old man and a 45-year-old woman, were found dead in a bedroom in an upstairs apartment at 2716 Liberty St. after officers were summoned there on a report of a shooting at about 8:30 a.m. Each suffered a single gunshot wound, Erie County Coroner Lyell Cook said.

"Cook said that right now, the deaths are being investigated as a murder/suicide.

"No autopsies have been scheduled at this point, Cook said.

"Erie police have recovered a gun, Police Chief Randy Bowers said.

"Two children were also in the apartment at the time of the shooting."


From GoErie.com...

Dead Man Likely Plotted Murder/Suicide


"TRABUCO CANYON, CA — Sheriff's homicide investigators believe a 56-year-old Lake Forest man tried to pull off a murder/suicide with his wife as the victim Tuesday, but only managed to successfully complete the suicide portion.

"Timothy Charles Wilkinson was declared dead from a gunshot wound at his home in the 28000 block of Mountain View Lane in Trabuco Canyon, according to Lt. Jeff Hallock, the Orange County Sheriff's spokesman.

"Meanwhile, Wilkinson's 72-year-old wife is being treated at a local hospital for blunt force trauma to the head and lacerations to her neck, says Hallock.

"He added the unidentified woman is expected to survive.

"`We believe the deceased male attempted to or intended it to be a murder/suicide,` Hallock tells City News Service. `We're investigating his death as a suicide.`

"Investigators were awaiting an autopsy to confirm Wilkinson's cause of death."


From ocweekly.com...

Bodies Found In Car On Lonely Road


"LACEY, WA — Thurston County sheriff's deputies are investigating an apparent murder/suicide shooting that left a husband and wife dead near Lacey Wednesday.

"A passing driver spotted the bodies just after 2 p.m. alongside 56th Ave. NE west of Marvin Rd. NE and called 911, according to Greg Elwin with the Thurston Co. Sheriff's Office.

"The 39-year-old woman was shot in the chest and pronounced dead at the scene, Elwin said. The 51-year-old man, had a gun shot wound to the face and died on the way to the hospital.

"`The gun that was used was right next to the bodies, and it appears they were husband and wife,` said Lt. Cliff Ziesemer of the Thurston County sheriff's office.

"The car is registered to a Lakewood apartment. Lakewood police rushed there and found the couple's two teenaged children. The kids were not hurt.

"Elwin said they are still investigating what led up to the shooting. The victims' names have not been released."


From komonews.com...

Tuesday, July 29, 2014

Shooter, Victim Survive Violent Encounter


"SEATTLE, WA — A recently released ex-con shot a Seattle bank guard and himself during a fight Thursday, King County prosecutors now claim.

"Charging documents from last week's Bank of America shooting the Central District say the defendant shot the guard several times with the guard's gun before shooting himself in the face.

"Prosecutors say Arthur Thomas, 24, had been released from jail just two days before the shooting.

"Having been convicted of and wanted for a handful of misdemeanor crimes in several counties, Thomas was reportedly trespassed from the bank by the guard in the past.

"Both Thomas and the guard were sent to Harborview Medical Center in critical condition following Thursday's shooting.

"As of Monday afternon, Thomas was in serious condition in the intensive care unit and the guard had been upgraded to satisfactory condition, hospital spokeswoman Susan Gregg said. King County prosecutors filed a first-degree assault charge against Thomas Friday.

"The incident occurred about 11 a.m. Thursday at the Bank of America branch at 2301 South Jackson Street."


From seattlepi.com...

Car Chase Ends With Two Dead, Shooter Hospitalized


"DRY RIDGE, KY — Authorities say a Grant County man fatally shot his estranged wife and a man she was with before turning the gun on himself.

"The shooting was reported late Monday night on Mulligan Road outside Dry Ridge, said Grant County Sheriff Chuck Dills.

"Dills said Shaun E. Hiles, 35, admitted to fatally shooting 35-year-old Nicole Hiles, his estranged wife, and 32-year-old Larry G. Whiteker, a man authorities believe Nicole Hiles was seeing.

"Dills said Nicole Hiles was staying with a friend near what became the scene of the double homicide. He said it is not clear where the pursuit started, but believes Shaun Hiles, angered with his estranged wife for seeing another man, followed Nicole and Whiteker down Vallandingham and onto Mulligan, where he hit the blue pickup truck they were driving with his silver SUV.

"A tall grassy area a few feet from the intersection had tire tracks showing the truck's path before stopping.

"Shaun Hiles `had been chasing after them,` Dills said. `We're learning that his wife was seeing this other person and he was upset over it.`

"Hiles then fatally shot his wife, who was in the passenger seat of the pickup truck, Dills said. He then put down that gun, picked up a .223 caliber rifle with a large-capacity magazine, jumped out of his SUV and began to fire inside the truck, killing Whiteker, Dills said. Whiteker suffered multiple gunshot wounds.

"Hiles then turned the gun on himself. He was flown to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, where Tuesday he was in the intensive care unit, being treated for at least two gunshot wounds.

"Dills said deputies were at the hospital, but it could be some time before the suspect is fully questioned."


Read more at cincinnati.com...

Person Of Interest Found Dead


"TAHLEQUAH, OK — Tahlequah Police Department is investigating death of an elderly woman on July 24, 2014, as a homicide. Police Chief Nate King says an officer conducting a welfare check in the 1200 block of West Keetoowah found 71-year-old Beverly Marshall dead inside her home.

"Detectives found four small wounds on her body, King said. The next day, the state Medical Examiner’s Office said those wounds were made by a small caliber handgun.

"Marshall had been shot in the upper torso and head.

"Authorities say a person of interest developed during their investigation was found dead Friday night by Cherokee County Sheriff’s deputies. King says that person, who was not identified, is believed to have committed suicide."


From newson6.com...

Monday, July 28, 2014

Estranged Couple Dead, Kids OK


"CARMEL, IN — Police were investigating Sunday a man and ex-wife found dead in a home as a possible murder/suicide.

"Carmel Police responded to reports of a shooting in the 4600 block of Somerset Way South. The shooting happened shortly after 8 p.m. on Sunday.

"Major Lee Goodman from the Carmel Police Department confirmed that the two victims were found dead at the scene.

"According to preliminary investigations the man, David Hall, 38, shot his ex-wife, Shannon Hall, 40, then shot himself.

"Goodman said their two children, ages 8 and 10, were in the home at the time of the shooting, but they were not hurt. Police said Shannon’s parents were in the home as well but weren’t hurt.

"`It’s tragic that anytime a domestic situation has to come to this type of a conclusion. It’s unneeded. There are other avenues for people with counseling, and it’s just unfortunate they have to come to this,` said Goodman.

"The number of shots fired and where the victims were shot was not immediately released. Carmel Police will continue to investigate the shooting."


From WISHTV.com...

Family Of Five Found Dead In Apartment


"SACO, ME — State police said Monday afternoon that 33-year-old Joel Smith shot and killed his wife and three children before killing himself on Sunday afternoon in their apartment on 35 Water Street.

"Smith shot his wife, Heather Smith, 35; his stepson, Jason Montez, 12; and his two children, Noah Montez, 7, and Lily Smith, 4, Maine State Police Sgt. Chris Harriman said at a press conference.

"The older two children were shot in their separate bedrooms, and Heather Smith and the daughter were killed in the master bedroom, where Joel Smith committed suicide. Harriman said it appeared all the victims were sleeping in bed at the time of the shootings. Some were shot multiple times.

"`We know that they were having some domestic issues, some financial problems,` Harriman said. `We’re going to try to get to the bottom of that by interviewing friends, family, friends of the children.`

"Harriman said police had not previously been called to the house. He said prescription medications were found in the house, but would not elaborate."


Source: Bangor Daily News...

Women Found Dead In Boarded-Up Home


"SAN ANTONIO, TX — A mother and daughter were found dead on the East Side in what San Antonio police said is an apparent murder/suicide.

"According to a San Antonio police report, officers were contacted by a relative Sunday morning who had not heard from the women in days and saw both their vehicles parked outside a home in the 1300 block of Delaware Street.

"Officers arrived and saw the relative taking off the front burglar door to go inside. The report stated officers could immediately smell a foul odor coming from inside the house.

"Once the burglar door was removed, officers realized the door was boarded shut from the inside. San Antonio firefighters were then called to help officers get into the home. Firefighters removed an A/C unit and a fireman crawled inside to remove the board.

"Officers made their way inside and found both women in a room laying on the same bed with what appeared to be gunshot wounds to their heads, the release stated. A small revolver that appeared to be used in the incident was on the floor next to the bed, the release stated.

"Homicide detectives were called to the scene to investigate. Police said the older woman was 61 and the younger woman was 37. Police had not released their names as of 11 a.m. Monday but did say the mother shot and killed her daughter before turning the gun on herself."


From KSAT.com...

Woman Found Dead In Alley, Shooter Dies In Hospital


"ARLINGTON, TX — Arlington police say a woman died of an apparent gunshot wound and a man took his own life in the 1100 block of East Abram Street on Sunday afternoon.

"The woman, identified by the Tarrant County Medical Examiner's office as 46-year-old Maria Ojeda of Arlington, was found dead in the alleyway behind a restaurant, police said.

"Witnesses told detectives that Hector Acosta, 50, killed Ojeda and then attempted to shoot himself. Acosta was hospitalized but died a short time later at an Arlington hospital.

"While investigators said they believe this to be a domestic incident, the relationship between Ojeda and Acosta is not clear."


From KHOU.com...

Dogs, Cats, & Horses Roam Scene of The Crime


"ELLENBURG, NY — State Police believe Larry C. Williamson killed his wife, Pamela, then killed himself.

"`That’s how it appears right now,` Lt. John Coryea of the State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation told the Press-Republican on Sunday.

"At about 8 p.m. Saturday, the couple's bodies were discovered by police inside their Ellenburg home at 1568 Bradley Pond Road.

"A trooper responded to the location after a concerned relative of Mrs. Williamson asked police to check on her welfare, authorities said.

"On Sunday, State Police Troop B Bureau of Criminal Investigation Capt. Robert LaFountain that he could not say at that point when the deaths took place.

"`We are in the process of trying to determine a timeline,` he said.

"A State Police vehicle and yellow police tape blocked the entrance to the driveway of the Williamson home Sunday afternoon.

"Horses grazed in fenced-in, grassy enclosures on each side of the white house, while at least one additional horse could be seen in a barn just behind the home.

"Coryea said he couldn't say for sure whether the animals belonged to the Williamsons.

"`They could have been housing them for somebody else,` he said. `Our investigators are looking into that.`

"Numerous cats roamed the property.

"Inside the home were dogs, as well, which were removed by dog control officers from both Ellenburg and Mooers, according to Coryea.

"More information would be released following the completion of the autopsies and as details surrounding the deaths come into focus, he said."


Source: Press Republican...

Elderly Shooter Dead, Wife In Critical Condition


"DECATUR, AL — One man is dead and a woman seriously hurt after an attempted murder/suicide in Decatur.

"Morgan County Coroner Jeff Chunn released the names of those involved.

"Chunn said 84-year-old James `Jim` Jones shot his wife Irma Jones, and then shot himself.

"It happened shortly before 6:00 p.m. Friday at a home on Tammy Street.

"Police say Irma was able to run from the home to a neighbor’s house. While a neighbor was attending to her wound, a second gunshot was fired.

"Police say Jim Jones was found in the garage with a gunshot wound. Irma Jones was flown to Huntsville Hospital in critical condition.

"Doctors pronounced the husband dead at Decatur Morgan Hospital."


From WHNT News...

Licensed Gunman Kills Child, Injures Woman, Commits Suicide


"RIDLEY PARK, PA — A 5-year-old boy was shot to death late Saturday night and his mother seriously injured in what Ridley Township police said was a shooting rampage by the child's father, who then shot himself in the head.

"Ridley police gave the following account:

"At 11:10 p.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to the Penn Ridge Apartments in the 1100 block of Haverford Road in the township's Crum Lynne section to investigate a report of several people shot.

"Cion Styles was lying on the grass at the rear of an apartment building, bleeding heavily from a gunshot wound to the head. Washington had been shot in the face and buttocks.

"Washington told police she and her son had been attending a birthday party there for one of her sister's children earlier in the day. Tyrell Styles had stopped by around 5 p.m. to spend some time with Cion.

"When Tyrell Styles arrived back at Penn Ridge Apartments shortly after 11 p.m., Washington went outside to retrieve her son and gunshots rang out.

"Washington told police she and Cion had been shot by Tyrell Styles, who then fled in a white Pontiac Grand Prix.

"Several minutes later, police from Prospect Park, Norwood and Tinicum saw that car running red lights on Chester Pike. The car then crashed into a pickup truck at Oak Avenue and Chester Pike, before continuing on Chester Pike with police in pursuit.

"It then turned down Brainerd Boulevard, a dead-end street in Sharon Hill. As officers approached the stopped car, Tyrell Styles shot himself.

"His son was pronounced dead at Crozer-Chester Hospital. Hours later, at 1:05 p.m. Sunday, Tyrell Styles was pronounced dead at HUP.

"Tyrell Styles had no prior criminal record and had a license to carry the gun he used, police said."


From philly.com...

Friday, July 25, 2014

Death On A Dead End Street


"FORT COLLINS, CO — A 73-year-old man and a 26-year-old relative are dead in a reported murder/suicide in southwest Fort Collins.

"Fort Collins police and other emergency personnel were dispatched to the shooting incident in the city's southwest corner at 12:51 p.m. Thursday. An informant told police that her husband had shot a family member and then himself.

"Upon arriving to the scene on the 6300 block of Thompson Drive, police confirmed that two males were found dead in a residence on the dead-end street northwest of the intersection of South Shields Street and Trilby Road.

"The Larimer County Coroner's Office on Thursday afternoon identified the men as 73-year-old Gene Kapperman and 26-year-old Brandon Kapperman. Both are from Fort Collins.

"There is no risk to the community, police said.

"The Larimer County coroner will determine the official causes and manners of death after the autopsies tomorrow.

"Neighbor Cheryl Frosh called her neighborhood `about as quiet as they get,` and said residents were known to go for walks together down the meandering dirt roads lined with 2-acre lots and horse stables."


From 9news.com...

Wednesday, July 23, 2014

Chance Encounter Leads To Argument, Violence, And Death


"BICKNELL, IN — At approximately 2 a.m. Wednesday morning, Indiana State Police, Knox County Sheriff’s Office and Bicknell Police responded to 707 Durbin Street in Bicknell after a 33-year-old Knox County man was shot and killed during an argument with another man.

"Police said, in a release, Paul Ryan Russell, 33, Bruceville, was standing outside of Durbin and Cherry streets in Bicknell when he noticed Todd Godare, 48, Bicknell, coming toward him.

"Russell ran into a nearby residence and grabbed a baseball bat. The two argued and Godare allegedly shot and killed Russell with a .22-caliber handgun. Godare then left the scene in a 1999 Chevrolet S-10 pickup truck.

"At approximately 4 a.m., Vincennes City Police spotted the vehicle near McDowell and Washington Avenue. Officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop, but Godare failed to stop and continued driving the speed limit on various city streets. Shortly later, Godare stopped on SR 61 near Kimmell Road and used a handgun to take his own life.

"Knox County Coroner Gordon Becher said autopsies are scheduled for Thursday morning."


Source: Times Herald Online...

Mother And Son Found Shot To Death


"TULSA, OK — Police say a mother and her teenage son found shot to death inside a Tulsa home may have planned their own deaths.

"Kimberly Crabtree, 50, was discovered Tuesday afternoon with her son, 17-year-old Joseph Crabtree, inside their house on 2215 South Delaware Place in Tulsa's midtown district.

"Police say both had been shot and were deceased.

"Investigators say Kimberly Crabtree's sister asked police to go to the home to check the well-being of the residents.

"According to a news release issued this morning by Tulsa Police:

"`There was no signs of a struggle inside the residence. The investigation is ongoing however it appears that the shooting was planned by both parties. The OK Medical Examiner's Office will attempt to determine the sequence of events that led to the deaths. The evidence recovered at the scene indicates to investigators that Joseph Crabtree shot Kimberly and then shot himself.`"


From news9.com...

Welfare Check Reveals Bodies


"COLUMBUS, OH — Police said a man killed a woman before taking his own life inside a South Columbus home.

"Officers said 51-year-old Kathy Shonkwiler's son hadn't heard from his mother and asked police to check on her Lewis Road home Tuesday.

"When officers arrived, they say they found Shonkwiler and Troy Stone, 46, dead.

"Investigators believe Stone killed Shonkwiler and then himself."


From 10tv.com...

Female Shooter Had Prior Record Of Gun Violence


"HUDSON, FL — Deputies say they deaths of two people in Hudson appear to be the result of a murder/suicide.

"It was around 10 p.m. Monday night when deputies were called to a home on 6601 Clark Street for a welfare check. Inside, they found the bodies of Rhonda Patterson, 46, and Robert Clark, 53.

"Investigators believe Patterson shot and killed Clark, then turned the gun on herself.

"Deputies say they had been called to the home over a year ago to investigate a report that Patterson had fired off a gunshot while Clark was leaving the home, but the state attorney's office did not file charges in that case.

"No other information was immediately available."


From FOX Tampa Bay...

Ex-Husband With A Gun Cancels Rural Rendezvous


"LOGAN, OH — A man is dead and a woman hospitalized after the woman’s ex-husband opened fire at a cabin in the Hocking Hills. That suspected gunman is also injured due to an apparent self-inflicted wound.

"Michael Napoli is accused of shooting his ex-wife, Kimberly Napoli, and James Boergers, Jr. on Saturday night. It happened at the Wildwoods Backwood Retreats Cabins on State Route 678 in Hocking County.

"Kimberly survived the attack.

"She was injured but managed to drive four miles looking for help. She arrived at a home of a Logan firefighter, and his wife called for help just before 9 p.m. on Saturday.

"Kimberly can be heard in the recording saying that her ex-husband was the shooter and that he found her by hacking her email.

"When authorities arrived at the cabin, they discovered James Boergers Jr. of Jacksonville, Florida dead of a single gunshot wound.

"Police say Michael Napoli used social media accounts and email to track down his ex and the man she was with.

"According to the Fayette County Sheriff's Office, Michael Napoli was spotted around 24 hours after the shooting at the Econo Lodge on West Lancaster Road in West Lancaster, about an hour west of the cabin.

"After police confirmed that it was Michael in the motel, they surrounded the building around 6:00 a.m. Monday. Authorities tried to get him to surrender using tear gas, but he refused to come out.

"Michael Napoli then realized he was trapped and called for a negotiator. After several hours, talks broke off and police say the suspect’s conversation became disoriented. That's when deputies felt he would not exit the motel room alive, and they made the decision to go in.

"Upon entry, they found Napoli with a gunshot wound to the head. He was taken to Miami Valley Hospital in Dayton in critical condition."


From WBNS...

Ex-Husband Shows Up With A Gun


"WILLIS, MI — A Willis man is recovering at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital Sunday afternoon after a woman’s ex-husband shot him in the midsection before turning the gun on himself Saturday night, a family member said.

"Nicholas Elka was rushed to St. Joseph Mercy Hospital with a gunshot wound in his abdomen after a man shot him outside his home, said Larry Woerst, Elka’s grandfather. Woerst said Elka was being dropped off at the home in the 8500 block of Bunton Road about 11:40 p.m. Saturday by a female friend he’d been out with a few times.

"When they arrived at the residence, the woman’s ex-husband was parked in the front yard, Woerst said.

"`My grandson got out of the car, walked up and said, 'What’s going on, what do you need, what do you want,'` Woerst said. `And, the guy said, 'I left you messages, I said I was gonna take care of you.' And, he pulled out a gun and shot my grandson.`

"Woerst said the bullet went through Elka's abdomen and exited through his back. Despite his wound, he was able to make it to the home next door where his mother lives.

"After shooting Elka, the man fatally shot himself, Woerst said.

"Elka was brought to St. Joseph Mercy Hospital and underwent surgery for three-and-a-half hours, Woerst said. The bullet missed hitting any bones, and he’s expected to recover at this point. Woerst said he was able to speak with Elka by phone Sunday morning.

"`He’s a very, very lucky young man,` Woerst said, adding that Elka is still in intensive care and being watched closely by doctors."


From mlive.com...

Monday, July 21, 2014

Gunman Found Dead After Shooting Two


"RIVERSIDE, CA — A 43-year-old Jurupa Valley woman was fatally shot by her estranged husband who later killed himself Saturday, July 19, authorities said.

"Sheriff’s deputies responded to a call of an assault with a deadly weapon in the 3400 block of Skylane Drive shortly after 8:30 a.m. They found a woman in the driveway of a home suffering from gunshot wounds, according to a Riverside County sheriff’s news release.

"The woman, Simona Mateas, was taken to a hospital, where she died, the release said.

"Deputies found a second person at the home with gunshot wounds. The person was taken to a hospital and treated for non-life-threatening injuries, the release stated.

"At about 2 p.m., the San Bernardino Police Department received a call of a suicide in the 1900 block of West Lincoln Avenue, said San Bernardino police Sgt. Brett Birnbaum.

"The man who killed himself, identified as Avram Mateas, was the suspect in the shooting. Simona and Avram Mateas were going through a divorce, the release said."


Read more at pe.com...

Police Decline To Elaborate


"SAUSALITO, CA — Two bodies were discovered inside a Sausalito residence early Sunday after police responded to reports of gunfire in the neighborhood.

"The bodies were found at about 2:45 a.m. inside 173 San Carlos Ave., a two-story home over a garage in the hills near Spencer Avenue. The residence has a front driveway on San Carlos Avenue and a rear staircase leading up to Santa Rosa Avenue.

"The police department said it sent officers to the home after receiving a report of gunshots at 2:38 a.m., but another resident across the street said she heard several sharp bursts at 2:15 a.m. She said she did not call police because she thought the sound might have been firecrackers.

"A neighbor who lives behind the residence, on the Santa Rosa Avenue side, said she heard a "bang" two to three times.

"`I looked around and saw nothing out of the window,` she said.

"Sausalito police declined to release details about the two people or their injuries, but described the event as an `isolated incident.` Police Chief Jennifer Tejada said there is nothing to indicate the general public is at risk but declined to elaborate with the investigation in progress.

"There was no sign of a break-in at the home, she said.

"Two pets, a cat and a dog, were inside the home when police went inside. The animals were turned over to the Marin Humane Society.

"Marin County sheriff's detectives, Central Marin police and a coroner's investigator were assisting in the inquiry.

"The coroner's office did not release the names of the victims pending confirmation and notification of family members."


Read more at marinij.com...

Two Dead, One Hospitalized After Argument In Home


"BEDFORD, KY — Police have released more details in the apparent murder/suicide in Trimble County Sunday morning.

"Police were called to the 100 block of Garriott Court just after 2 a.m. when they said 48-year-old Robert Harmon shot himself, his former girlfriend and her 16-year-old niece.

"Harmon and the 16-year-old died, and 33-year-old Niki Davis was injured.

"Neighbors told police Davis lived with Harmon in the house for the last two to three years. The couple had an argument, and Davis moved out.

"Investigators said Davis returned to the house and that's when Harmon shot Davis, her niece, and himself.

"Davis’ daughter heard the gunshots from the upper-level of the house, came downstairs and called police.

"KSP said troopers have never responded to any domestic or violence-related calls to the house.

"`You can't predict something like this,` Trooper Brad Arterburn said. `Just want to tell people—get away from each other and cool down. That's the best advice you can give, but obviously it doesn't happen sometimes.`

"Police said two juveniles were inside the home when the shooting took place and they have been placed with other family members.

"Davis remains hospitalized but is expected to survive her injuries."


From whas11.com...

Saturday, July 19, 2014

Two Dead In Assisted-Living Facility


"SEATTLE, WA — Seattle police are investigating the deaths of a man and woman at a Ravenna assisted-living facility as a possible murder/suicide.

"At around 2 p.m., police received a report of a suicidal man leaving his home in Ballard.

"`A short time later, police received a second call from the family indicating the man may have headed for his elderly mother’s assisted living facility in the Ravenna neighborhood, with plans to harm her,` police wrote in a news release.

"As police headed to the Ida Culver House Ravenna, staff there went to check on the woman. They found the bodies of the man and a woman, police said.

"Police have not identified the people found dead in the room.

"The case is under investigation."


Source: The Seattle Times...

Murder Suspect Commits Suicide During SWAT Standoff


"CORPUS CHRISTI, TX — Rain poured down on law enforcement officials Friday as they surrounded a ranch south of San Diego where a murder suspect engaged in a standoff.

"According to Alan Gonzalez, an investigator with the Duval County Sheriff's Office, they received a call just before 7 a.m. to be on the lookout for a man that was considered armed and dangerous.

"Officials said the suspect was wanted in connection with the shooting death of Lanny Gonzalez, 44, on Teague Lane in Calallen earlier that morning.

"Gonzalez leaves behind three children.

"Joseph Carrillo, 41, fled west, where a deputy with the Duval County Sheriff's Department spotted a vehicle matching the description of the one seen earlier that morning leaving the murder scene.

"The deputy followed the driver, who then sped up and turned onto family property after spotting the official.

"The deputy said he secured the location and called for assistance.

"Investigator Gonzalez said the man let two young children out of the house early in the morning, and they were taken to the Sheriff's Department.

"Border Patrol, the Texas Department of Public Safety troopers and Texas Rangers assisted in the incident.

"Armored vehicles and a John Deere tractor were seen rolling onto the property.

"A DPS chopper eventually located Carrillo's body in the corrals. Investigator Gonzalez said officials heard a single gunshot earlier in the morning, leading them to believe the suspect had committed suicide.

"Officials would not comment on the weapon Carrillo used to commit suicide.

"Both Carrillo and Gonzalez were from Benavides."


From alicetx.com...

Mother & Son Found Dead In Home


"OMAHA, NE — Early autopsy results show that a 54 year old Omaha woman died from blunt force trauma to the head and her 18 year old son from carbon monoxide poisoning. The bodies of Maureen Flanagan and her son Cooper were found last Wednesday inside their west Omaha home. A friend checking on their well being found mail stacked up outside the home and called law enforcement.

"Douglas County investigators say Maureen Flanagan’s body was found in the basement of the home and Cooper was inside a vehicle in the attached garage.

"Authorities have still not confirmed this is a murder/suicide however did state that the public is not in danger and they are not looking for suspects. The investigation continues."


Source: Nebraska Radio Network...

Police Chase Ends With Dead Driver, Body in Trunk


"WYOMING, MI — Three people and an unborn baby are dead after a bizarre chain of events in the Grand Rapids area.

"It began with a report of an abandoned vehicle near Gezon Park in Wyoming and the discovery of homicide victim Charles Oppenneer Wednesday.

"That triggered the search for his 18-year-old pregnant girlfriend, Brooke Slocum.

"It all came to a bloody disturbing end when police gave chase to a suspect in the investigation and he crashed into the railing on the bridge that carries Burton St. over U.S. 131 late last night.

"Police say they found their suspect dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound behind the wheel and Slocum’s body in the trunk.

"Slocum was 8-1/2 months pregnant."


From WKZO...

UPDATE:

07/28/2014 — The Craigslist connection...

Friday, July 18, 2014

Two Dead After Auto Shop Attack


"YPSILANTI, MI — The man who was stabbed at an Ypsilanti Township auto shop by a man who later took his own life on U.S. 23 died from his injuries Thursday morning, a sheriff’s office official confirmed Thursday.

"Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Geoffrey Fox said the 36-year-old Ypsilanti Township man who was stabbed Monday afternoon at Mike’s Welding and Fabricating died shortly before noon Thursday at St Joseph Mercy Hospital in Superior Township.

"`He passed away this morning due to medical complications due to the stabbing,` Fox said.

"The man has been identified as Shaun Martin Psimer.

"Psimer was stabbed in the throat and back multiple times by 46-year-old Robert David Richmond, of Howell, about 3:40 p.m. Monday at the auto shop, 1539 Ecorse Road, police said. Richmond then fled the area in a silver Ford Escape.

"Mike Olson, the owner of the shop, said Richmond asked for Psimer by name. He then entered the restroom, which the man had entered shortly before, and stabbed him, Olson said.

"Olson said he found his friend sprawled out on the bathroom floor, bleeding from his wounds. Olson called 911, and Psimer was taken to St Joseph Mercy Hospital by Huron Valley Ambulance crews.

"During a traffic stop on northbound U.S. 23 near Eight Mile Road in Green Oak Township, Richmond shot himself once in the head after he was pulled over by a Northfield Township police officer. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

"With both the suspect and victim dead, Fox said determining a motive for the stabbing is going to be incredibly difficult — and it may never be known."


From mlive.com...

Three Kids Orphaned After Mom & Dad Have An Argument


"HOUSTON, TX — A young, newly married couple died this morning at their north Houston home in what police are calling a murder/suicide.

"Investigators say 26-year-old Candace Williams was arguing with her husband, 24-year-old Phillip Deckard when he shot her, then shot himself.

"Williams' three children, 7-year-old Neiria, 6-year-old Torian and one year old Paris were there at the time. The 7-year-old heard the gunshots and ran to a neighbor's home for help.

"The neighbor retrieved the other children and called 911. Police discovered the couple dead in the home.

"`Candace was just a loving mom, loved her kids, she had just started a new job and she was about her children.` said her cousin, Sheryl Broussard.

"Today, the weight of what has happened is heavy on those living nearby.

"`My heart goes out to the kids because that's who is affected by it. The others, but mainly those kids,` said neighbor, LaTonya Shelton.

"Houston police say the children will likely be placed with someone in their large extended family."


From abc13.com...

Pair Found Dead In Man's Former Home


"HUGHESVILLE, MD — Two bodies were found dead Wednesday morning inside a house in Hughesville.

"Charles County sheriff’s officers suspect a murder/suicide though sheriff’s office spokeswoman Diane Richardson said it is too early in the investigation to be certain.

"At 11:45 a.m. July 16, officers were called to the 6900 block of Wood Glen Drive after the homeowner discovered his son, Damian Harley, 37, inside the house and deceased from a gunshot wound.

"Nearby, officers also found the body of a woman who also had a fatal gunshot wound.

"A sheriff’s office report emailed Wednesday afternoon states officers believe that Damian Harley shot the woman and then shot himself.

"Richardson said officers recovered a `long gun` from the scene.

"`Right now it looks like it could be a murder/suicide,` Richardson said, adding that it’s too early to tell as forensics still have to finish processing the scene, and detectives still are interviewing witnesses and family members.

"`At this point it does not look like foul play was involved,` she said, meaning no other individual is suspected in the deaths.

"Richardson said Harley and the woman did not live at the house where they were found. She said officers heard the man had lived there before, but it was not his current residence."


From SoMdNews...

"Random" Shooting At Rest Stop Claims Two Lives


"FRANKLIN, KY — A Spring Hill man was shot and killed Tuesday night in what appears to have been a random, senseless act of violence at a Kentucky rest stop just north of the Tennessee state line.

"After shooting 40-year-old Jamie Plymel point-blank, Kentucky State Police said James Roames, 39, of Hendersonville, Tenn., turned the gun on himself.

"Plymel was taken to the Medical Center at Franklin where he was pronounced dead. Roames was transported to Skyline Medical Center in Nashville where he also died.

"Although the investigation is ongoing, police believe the shooting was random. The men did not know each other.

"Police said Roames walked up to Plymel’s SUV parked at the Kentucky Welcome Center off Interstate 65 at 9:25 p.m. and opened fire. Several shots were fired, although it is unclear how many times Plymel, who was still seated in the driver’s seat, was hit.

"`We’re still going through the car,` Kentucky State Trooper Jonathan Biven told WBKO-TV in Bowling Green. `This investigation will continue going on, so it’ll be a while before we actually know a motive.`

"There is no security at the Kentucky Welcome Center, but the rest stop is staffed with maintenance workers 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

"Two workers inside at the time of the shooting heard the gunshots and called 911."


From wkrn.com...

Tuesday, July 15, 2014

Couple Married Over 30 Years Found Dead


"WEST POINT, KY — The bodies of Avery Blevens, 63, and Marion Blevens, 65, were discovered Monday in the bedroom of a home on 936 Cowbranch Road, in the Nichols community.

"According to police, the two died as a result of murder/suicide, saying Avery Blevens shot Marion Blevens while she lay in bed.

"Family members said the pair—who had been married for more than 30 years—had been arguing recently.

"According to family members, Avery Blevens had a stroke a few years ago and it put a strain on their marriage.

"`The family has been concerned lately with how things were going with the family. I want to stop short of saying they thought this would happen, but things had escalated with his condition recently,` said Bullitt County Lt. Mike Murdoch.

"Deputies said it was that concern that led a family member to check on the couple Monday afternoon.

"`It appears at some point Sunday, the male subject shot the female numerous times as she was laying in the bed. He then later shot himself in the same bedroom,` Murdoch said.

"Deputies responded around 1 p.m. Monday and spent most of the day investigating."


From wlky.com...

Dead Couple Had History Of Dating Violence


"AUSTIN, TX — Austin Police have identified one of the victims in Sunday night's deadly shooting in West Austin. Maeghan Bernier , 25, was shot and killed during a domestic dispute at Champion Grand View Way, Apt. #206.

"Police were called to the Gables Grandview Apartments around 11:20 p.m. Sunday after getting a call about a disturbance with a gun. When officers arrived they found a deceased female with multiple gunshot wounds. They also found a deceased male with a gunshot wound in close proximity to the female (Bernier).

"Through the investigation, detectives have established that the 41-year-old male suspect came over to Bernier's apartment with a handgun, broke in, and then proceeded to attack her. During the attack, Bernier suffered several gunshot wounds to her person, including the fatal one. The suspect then turned the handgun on himself.

"Police say the two had a history of dating violence with each other.

"Officials have not released the name of the deceased suspect pending the notification of family.

"The Travis County Medical Examiner's Office has ruled Bernier's death as a homicide. The suspect's death has been ruled a suicide."


From KEYE TV...

Man Drowns In Lake After Beating Two To Death


"TAVARES, FL — Police said Tuesday they were still trying to determine what led a 32-year-old Tavares man to beat to death his live-in girlfriend and her mother—as well as how the suspect ended up dead in a nearby lake.

"Shannon Ratliff, 42, the suspect's live-in girlfriend, was found bludgeoned to death in the living room of their 905 Hibiscus Court home. Her mother, Mavis Ratliff, 66, died later at a hospital, according to Tavares police.

"Eddie Ratliff, 51, Shannon's brother and a Eustis sanitation worker, remained in critical condition at a hospital Tuesday, where he underwent surgery for injuries suffered in the attack.

"According to an investigative report, police responded to the home about 4:15 p.m. Monday to a call of Shannon being beaten by her boyfriend, 32-year-old James Earl Jones—a man who was forced into LifeStream Behavioral Center in December and who showed up at the facility twice within the last week.

"Officers arriving at the home discovered Jones near a van parked in front, holding a silver aluminum baseball bat and with blood on his shirt. Police confronted him with a stun gun. Jones allegedly dropped the bat, turned around, yelled `come on and Tase me, come on and Tase me,` then took off running through a grassy field in front of the duplex and toward Mansfield Road.

"Police then walked around the van and discovered Mavis lying there in the yard. Eddie, who had driven to the home to help his sister during the beating of Shannon, was found lying face down about 40 feet away from Mavis.

"What amounted to a gruesome scene inside the home, according to the investigative report, officers then found Shannon. The report adds all three sustained severe head injuries.

"Jones allegedly beat the three people with a bat. He was later was found dead, floating in nearby Lake Dora."


Read more at the Daily Commercial...

Police Find Dead Couple In Upscale Home


"EDMOND, OK — Authorities have identified the two residents in an apparent murder/suicide discovered Monday in an Oak Tree-area home.

"Tuesday afternoon, Edmond Police Department spokeswoman Jenny Monroe identified Kenneth Frame, 55, and Pamela Frame, 64, as the residents discovered in the home at 5509 Fairway Drive in the Highlands addition, located near the Oak Tree Country Club golf course.

"There is no other new information the case as of this afternoon,` Monroe said.

"Why it occurred is not yet known. Monroe said at this time the investigation still points toward a murder/suicide scenario.

"Amy Elliott, spokeswoman for the state medical examiner’s office, said both decedents are being examined. Other information on their cases is pending, Elliott said.

"At about 8:30 a.m. Monday, the Police Department received a call for a welfare check at the address, Monroe said in a previous report. Officers did come out and found a male and female both deceased inside the home.

"It was the first murder of 2014 recorded in Edmond."


From edmondsun.com...

Deputies Find Two Shot In Rural Home


"FAULKNER COUNTY, AR — A woman has now died after being airlifted from the scene of a suspected murder/suicide.

"The incident had already claimed the life of a man at a home at 235 Highway 36.

"The area is northeast of Conway in Enola.

"The Faulkner County Sheriff's Office (FCSO) says when deputies arrived on the scene they found the man body of Kevin Battle, 50, and Stephanie Hermes, 32, with a gunshot wound to the head. She died about 3 hours later at UAMS in Little Rock.

"The FCSO says investigators were told that the couple had been in a previous relationship."


From arkansasmatters.com...

Relative Finds Bodies In Bedroom


"MAPLE SHADE, NJ — The deaths of a southern New Jersey couple whose bodies were found inside their home last week have been ruled a murder/suicide.

"Burlington County Prosecutor Robert Bernardi announced the finding on Monday.

"Bernardi said the investigation revealed 42-year-old Craig Hike of Maple Shade fatally shot his 39-year-old wife, Nicole, before taking his own life in their Arlington Avenue home on Friday.

"Bernardi said a relative called police shortly after 9 p.m. Friday after finding the couple in their bedroom. An autopsy conducted Sunday determined both died from gunshot wounds.

"Further details on the deaths were not disclosed."


From the Asbury Park Press...

Shooter Makes 911 Call


"GREEN VALLEY, AZ — A man who shot his wife Saturday and then turned the gun on himself was suffering from a terminal illness, according to the Pima County Sheriff's Department.

"The couple were identified Monday as Alice Phillips, 76, and George Phillips, 77, of Green Valley.

"A spokesman said George Phillips made the 911 call on Saturday. Deputies said they had no previous calls to the address and George Phillips did not have a criminal history.

"Their bodies were found in their home near the Las Campanas Social Center after the 911 call just before 6 p.m. Saturday. Deputies were unable to notify next of kin until Monday.

"Both died from gunshot wounds, according to a press release. The investigation is ongoing."


From gvnews.com...

Relative Finds Bodies In Apartment


"JOHNSON CITY, TN — Police have released the names of a married couple who were involved in what officers believe was a murder/suicide that occurred at Brush Creek Apartments this weekend.

"On Sunday at around 2:46 p.m., Johnson City police found the bodies of Harry Lynch, 76, and Tina Ellis Lynch, 43, dead from apparent gunshot wounds inside Apartment 605 at 2914 Watauga Road.

"In a press release issued on Monday afternoon, police said their initial investigation and the preliminary reports from the William L. Jenkins Forensic Center indicated the incident was a murder/suicide. Additionally, police said, evidence indicates that Harry Lynch shot and killed his wife before taking his own life.

"On Sunday, police told Press staff that a relative called 911 after he or she found the Lynches' bodies inside their apartment. Upon their arrival, police said, they found the couple dead, along with a handgun, at the scene.

"Police estimated the incident took place sometime Sunday morning, adding that witnesses reported seeing the Lynches alive earlier that day. Because no witnesses reported seeing or hearing the shooting itself, police said, the exact time at which the incident took place was unknown.

"Despite the declaration of a murder/suicide, police said they were leaving the investigation open pending the results of the autopsy."


Source: Johnson City Press...

Monday, July 14, 2014

Three Dead In Midnight Shooting


"LOGAN, UT — Police say a Logan man forced his way into an apartment shortly after midnight Monday and shot and killed two people before going to another apartment and fatally shooting himself.

"MacKenzie Madden, 19, of Logan, and Johnathon Jacob Sadler, 25, of Logan, were shot multiple times and killed inside an apartment at 636 E. 500 North. Later, police found the body of Jared Jay Tolman, 23, of Logan, in an apartment at 1693 N. 400 West.

"Authorities believe Tolman, a member of the Utah Army National Guard at the time of his death, shot and killed Madden and Sadler before taking his own life.

"As of midday Monday, police had not disclosed a possible motive for the apparent double murder/suicide. While Madden and Tolman were reportedly acquaintances, investigators said there did not seem to be any serious relationships between the three people involved and the shootings were not believed to be domestic-related.

"Logan Police Lt. Brad Franke said just after midnight, Tolman forced his way into the apartment on 500 North and fired multiple rounds with a rifle. Franke said detectives believe Tolman went to the apartment with a specific target in mind. He did not say whether Madden or Sadler were the intended targets. Franke said there were no other people in the immediate vicinity when the shots were fired.

"Logan police officers were called to the apartment at 12:16 a.m.

"Some tenants called 911 believing there had been an explosion. But no evidence of an explosion or fireworks were found, police said. Some witnesses reported that a vehicle was spotted fleeing from the area shortly after the shootings.

"About 45 minutes later, officers were called to another report of a shooting at a second apartment. That's where they found Tolman's body, dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound."


Read more at Deseret News...

SWAT Standoff Ends When Cops Find Bodies


"HIALEAH, FL — A man who barricaded himself inside a Hialeah home Sunday night killed his girlfriend and then killed himself, police and family members of the victim told [reporters].

"Hialeah police spokesman Carl Zogby said Julian Ovalle, 40, killed his girlfriend, Rossana Sabater, 31, and then took his own life during a domestic dispute at a home on 660 East 63rd Street.

"The SWAT team was called to the home about 8 p.m. Sunday and a standoff ensued, lasting about three hours. Eventually, police entered the home and found the bodies.

"Police did not release any details of the murder/suicide, but Sebastian Acosta, who claimed to be Sabater's uncle, said Ovalle stabbed his niece and then slit his own throat.

"Acosta said the couple has two children together, ages 7 and 4, and Sabater has a 15-year-old daughter from a previous relationship. Acosta said Ovalle kicked the children out of the house earlier in the day.

"Police said there was evidence that a fire had been started during the incident, and neighbors reported seeing smoke coming from the home.

"The bodies were removed from the home Monday afternoon."


From local10.com...

Saturday, July 12, 2014

"I Just Killed Doug"


"NEW CASTLE, PA — A Lawrence County man shot his stepfather to death and then pointed his gun at his mother before shooting and killing himself late Friday, state police said.

"Authorities determined the deaths of Justin E. Burnett, 29, and Douglas C. Weingartner, 60, both of Wayne, were the result of a murder/suicide, police Lt. Eric Hermick said on Saturday.

"Burnett and his stepfather hadn't had a good relationship since the late 1990s, Burnett's mother, Jo Ann Wein-gartner, told police, Hermick said.

"Jo Ann Weingartner picked her son up in Ellwood City about 10 p.m. Friday, Hermick said. Burnett was believed to have been at a bar. His car was equipped with an interlock device, which prevents someone from driving when intoxicated. Court records show that Burnett had two drunken-driving convictions from 2012.

"When the two arrived home, Hermick said, Douglas Weingartner briefly argued with Burnett about his drinking before going upstairs to his bedroom.

"Burnett took his .40-caliber handgun and walked into Weingartner's bedroom and shot him four times, Hermick said.

"`He just basically assassinated him,` Hermick said. `(Weingartner) didn't try to move or defend himself.`

"Jo Ann Weingartner, who was downstairs, thought that her son was banging on the bedroom door, not realizing she was hearing gunshots, Hermick said, until he returned downstairs holding the gun.

"After telling her, `I just killed Doug,` Hermick said, Burnett pointed the gun at his mother.

"Burnett then shot himself, Hermick said. Jo Ann Weingartner was not injured but was `visibly traumatized` when police arrived, police said. The Lawrence County Coroner's Office pronounced the two men dead at the scene.

"Hermick said police hadn't previously responded to emergency calls at the Weingartner home."


From triblive.com...

Shooter Arrested Multiple Times Before Killing Wife, Self


"BANKS TWP, PA — Two people from Carbon County are dead following gunfire in their home. William Wilkinson, 44, killed Denise Wilkinson, 44, and then shot himself, State Police say.

"It happened around 10:45pm Friday in the first block of East Main Street in Junedale, Banks Township, police said.

"They were called to the home for a domestic disturbance, but by the time they arrived, William Wilkinson has had already killed Denise and himself, according to police.

"There is no word yet on what lead to the shooting.

"An inventory note was left hanging in one of the home's windows by authorities. Items listed on the inventory note found inside the home include a 9mm semi-automatic handgun and ammunition. According to court records, Denise Wilkinson filed for divorce in October 2013.

"Sources close to the couple [told reporters] that William Wilkinson had been arrested multiple times in the past for allegedly shooting out the windows of his wife's car and allegedly assaulting her in 2013."


From WFMZ.com...

Bodies Found In Burning Home


"ELLETTSVILLE, IN — A mother and son found inside a burning Ellettsville home Thursday died of gunshot wounds, the Monroe County Coroner's office announced Friday.

"Crews responded to the home on 7324 North Red Hill Road at 8:40 a.m., officials with the Monroe County Sheriff's Office said.

"Monroe County Sheriff's Detective Sgt. Brad Swain told [reporters] that investigators recovered a gun within close proximity of the two bodies. He says neighbors reported the woman who lived in the home had made comments about harming her son and herself.

"The victims were identified as 15-year-old Parker Gilliland-Wampler and 46-year-old Carla Gilliland.

"Monroe County Coroner Nicole Meyer said Parker and Gilliland both died of a single gunshot wound. Parker's death was ruled a homicide. Meyer said Gilliland's gunshot wound appeared to be self-inflicted.

"The coroner's office said there were no other suspects in the case."


From theindychannel.com...

Friday, July 11, 2014

Daughter Finds Parents Dead


"TUCSON, AZ — An investigation is ongoing into the apparent murder/suicide of a west-side couple.

"The husband and wife, both in their 50s, were found dead Thursday morning by their adult daughter, said Sgt. Pete Dugan, spokesman for the Tucson Police Department.

"All three lived in a home in the 3100 block of West Vuelta de los Mineros, near the intersection of West Sweetwater Drive and North Silverbell Road.

"The names of the husband and wife have not been released.

"Their daughter returned home at about 10 a.m., found her parents dead and called 911, Dugan said. A handgun was found near the bodies. Detectives are interviewing family, friends and neighbors,  Dugan said."


From tuscon.com...

Wednesday, July 9, 2014

Bodies Found In Different Counties


"ALISO VIEJO, CA — A woman found dead in an apartment may have been the victim in a murder/suicide that stretched across two counties, officials said.

"The 49-year-old woman was found dead in her Aliso Viejo home Monday, one day after her boyfriend was found on the side of Highway 138 in San Bernardino County, officials said.

"Orange County officials identified the woman as Brigitte J. Shaw.

"On Wednesday, officials said they believe Shaw had been dead for several days before her body was discovered in her apartment in the 23400 block of Summerfield.

"Deputies from San Bernardino County were led to the apartment after her boyfriend, Philip Alexander Smyth, 50, was found dead Sunday on the side of the highway near Silverwood Lake. They found Shaw’s body after serving a search warrant at the home Monday evening.

"San Bernardino County investigators had been looking into the death of Smyth, who was found inside a car on the shoulder of the road Sunday morning. Officials determined Smyth died as a result of `several self-inflicted stab wounds,` said Orange County sheriff’s Lt. Jeff Hallock."


Read more at pe.com...

Bodies Found Before Family Reunion


"JACKSONVILLE, FL — A husband and wife are dead in an apparent murder/suicide at the start of what was to be a family reunion Wednesday, relatives at the scene in the 3800 block of Ernjo Road said.

"Several people who appeared to know the victims gathered in the shade at the end of the short street and at one point grasped hands and lowered their heads in quiet prayer.

"A family member called 911 after discovering the bodies about noon, said Sgt. Craig Waldrup of the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office.

"The identities have not been officially released, and Waldrup said police did not know how the victims died or if there was a suspect.

"But brothers of the woman said the victims had been married about 40 years and suspected it was murder/suicide.

"Nancie Mae Johnson-Tinsley and Oscar Waldon Tinsley were both 67, according to public records.

"`She was a good person,` Jack Johnson said."


Read more at Jacksonville.com...

Elderly Shooter Survives Botched Suicide Bid


"AKRON, OH — An Akron man is accused of shooting and killing his 78-year-old wife before turning the gun on himself in a failed suicide attempt.

"Betty Harrison-Paxton was found dead early Tuesday inside the couple’s 1504 Peckham Street home. She suffered multiple gunshot wounds and was found on the floor inside her bedroom, authorities said.

"Her husband, John Paxton, 87, suffered what police believe was a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the chin and lower jaw. He was being treated at Akron General Medical Center. His condition was not known, but he was expected to survive.

"Police say Mr. Paxton called 911 to report the shooting just before 9 a.m. He told police he shot his wife and himself and that he hopes he dies, police said.

"Akron paramedics had to force their way inside the home. Mrs. Paxton was found on a bedroom floor still dressed in night clothes. Mr. Paxton was found across the hall inside another bedroom, police said.

"A motive behind the alleged murder/suicide is not yet clear, police Detective Lt. David Whiddon said.

"Mrs. Paxton was in good physical health and the home she and her husband shared for nearly 20 years was well maintained,
police said. Mr. Paxton did become more reclusive in recent weeks, family members told police, and he may have been suffering the early onset of a mental illness.

"A year ago this month, police records show that officers were contacted by Summit County Veterans Services personnel after Mr. Paxton became upset about flooding inside his home and was threatening suicide.

"The couple was married July 23, 1994, according to court records.

"There have been no reports of domestic violence involving the couple, police said."


From ohio.com...

Police Mum On Details Of Elderly Couple's Death


"MOON, PA — A husband is believed to have killed his wife today before killing himself in their Moon home, Allegheny County police said.

"The Allegheny County medical examiner's office said the deceased are Donald and Nancy Whiteside, both 82.

"Their son found them at the home on 1030 Sandhurst Drive, county police Lt. Andrew Schurman said. Police responded around 2:45 p.m.

"Lt. Schurman said said the wife had dementia.

"`A note was left, presumably by the deceased's husband for the police,` Moon police Chief Leo P. McCarthy wrote in a news release. Lt. Schurman would not comment on the note.

"Police would not state how the Whitesides died. The medical examiner's office will conduct autopsies."


Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette...

Two Dead In Hospital Shooting


"SPOKANE, WA — Police in Washington state say a gunman fatally shot his wife Tuesday morning before turning the weapon on himself at a downtown Spokane medical center.

"Spokane police said the man went to his wife's workplace in the Deaconess Medical Center complex and opened fire.

"No one else was injured in the shooting, authorities said.

"`This is an apparent domestic violence incident,` Spokane police spokeswoman Monique Cotton said.

"Identities and other details were not immediately available. KHQ-TV reported that the couple had two children, who were found safe.

"Deaconess Medical Center is a multi-building complex next to Interstate 90 in downtown Spokane, a city of 210,000 people in eastern Washington."


From SFGate.com...

Former JPMorgan Exec & Wife Found Dead


"LAKE HOPATCONG, NJ — JP Morgan executive director Julian Knott blasted his wife Alita to death with a shotgun before turning the gun on himself.

"The 45-year-old, who worked for the investment bank in London until July 2010, shot his 47-year-old wife multiple times before committing suicide with the same weapon.

"The couple met in London, with Alita opening nursery Quayside Tots Playgroup in Southwick, West Sussex, before they moved to the United States.

"She remained the playgroup's care provider until at least February 2013, according to the nursery's most recent Ofsted report.

"Julian moved to the United States from London in 2010 and was working at JP Morgan's Global Network Operations Center in Whippany, New Jersey, at the time of the tragedy.

"Jefferson Township police, in New Jersey, confirmed on Sunday they had found two unconscious bodies at the Knotts' large suburban home at 1.12am.

"A statement released on Tuesday added: `Through an extensive investigation conducted by the Jefferson Township Police Department, the Morris County Prosecutors Office and the Morris County Medical Examiner's Office the preliminary investigation has revealed that the two adults died as a result of gunshot wounds and the incident has been determined to be a murder/suicide.

"`This preliminary investigation revealed that Julian Knott, age 45, shot his wife Alita Knott, age 47, multiple times and then took his own life with the same weapon.`"


Source: International Business Times...

Monday, July 7, 2014

Neighbors Hear Gunshots, Police Find Bodies


"DUNLAP, TN — A couple in Sequatchie County are dead after police say the husband shot his wife of 18 years and then turned the gun on himself.

"The scene unfolded the afternoon of July 5, and police were called to the scene when neighbors heard gunshots from the secluded double-wide trailer at 51 Finley Circle, said Jody Lockhart, a detective with the Sequatchie County Sheriff's Office.

"The couple left behind a 6-year-old boy who has been placed with his grandparents. The boy was not in the home during the shooting, Lockhart said."


From timesfreepress.com...

Motive Unknown In Death Of Neighbors


"EXCELSIOR SPRINGS, MO — The violence on July 4 that took the lives of two men in Excelsior Springs has neighbors confused over what happened.

"According to neighbors, Todd Logan, 53, shot and killed his neighbor Cletis Southwick, 49, as Cletis returned to his home from a friend’s house.

"Neighbors [told reporters] that residents of the Excelsior Manor Mobile Home Park were watching fireworks earlier in the evening. Then, at about 11:20 p.m., as Cletis Southwick returned to his trailer, they say Logan opened fire on him and then turned the gun on himself.

"Logan died that night from a self-inflicted gunshot, as police surrounded the area. Southwick was taken to Liberty Hospital but died Sunday night.

"Neighbors say the two had a disagreement in the past, but they thought the men had patched things up.

"They do not recall the two having an argument or any kind of words before Logan shot Southwick.

"Neighbors described Southwick as a well-liked and friendly man who worked as a maintenance worker at the trailer park."


From WDAF-TV...

"I Just Killed My Wife"


"STEVENSVILLE, MI — Investigators say 57-year-old David Tripp shot and killed his wife, 42-year-old Delaina Tripp, then turned the gun on himself.

"It all played out around 6 this morning, along West John Beers Road, between Hollywood Rd and Lincoln Avenue.

"Police dispatch received a call from a driver around 6:13 am saying they saw a man chasing a woman across this road with a gun.

"They also say a second 911 call came in from David Tripp saying, `I just killed my wife.`

"After that, police say the man went back outside and shot himself near his home on 406 W. John Beers Road.

"When officials arrived at the scene they found Delaina Tripp had been run over. Police believe she was struck by a westbound vehicle while she lay dead in the road.

"This vehicle is a 1998 through 2002 Honda Accord. The color is unknown, and the vehicle has under carriage damage and is missing the right front inner fender.

"Neighbors say the couple kept to themselves. David Tripp has lived in this area for many years.

"`Just totally unbelievable for out here,` Cindy Diedrich, who lives across from the murder scene says. `I never would have expected it.`

"Diedrich says the couple recently got married, and kept to themselves.

"Police say Delaina was shot at least once. An autopsy is scheduled for tomorrow.

"Police search the couple's homes, and found no clues as to why Tripp killed his wife."


From WBST22...

Saturday, July 5, 2014

Elderly Relatives Found Shot Dead


"BALTIMORE, MD — Two elderly relatives who both battled health problems were found dead in an East Baltimore home Saturday in what Baltimore City police believe was a murder/suicide, according to a release from the department.

"Police did not identify the man and woman found in the 300 block of Folcroft St., where officers responded to a call of a suicide attempt around 11 a.m. When officers arrived, they found a woman shot in the head and a man with an apparent self-inflicted gun shout wound to the head.

"A preliminary investigation found that the two were relatives between the ages of 75 to 85, who police said were both `suffering from a host of long-term medical conditions.`

"Officials said they did not believe anybody else was involved in the killings."


Source: Baltimore Sun...

9 Kids Orphaned After Deadly Family Gathering


"OPELOUSAS, LA — An Opelousas man shot and killed his wife late Friday then killed himself, leaving behind their nine children, police said.

"Kerry J. Varis, 36, approached his wife, Nancy, 32, about 9:50 p.m. Friday at a family gathering in the 200 block of West Prudhomme Street and shot her once in the head, the Opelousas Police Department said.

"According to eyewitnesses, Varis walked away from the residence, pointed the gun at his head and pulled the trigger. He died at the scene. The weapon, a .38-caliber revolver, was found next to him.

"Varis used the same gun to shoot his wife, police said. Nancy Varis died at a hospital.

"Earlier Friday, at 1:30 a.m., officers answered a domestic disturbance call involving the Varises at the West Prudhomme Street address, police said in a news release says.

"`Mrs. Varis indicated then that she simply wanted him to leave her sister’s residence,` the release says.

"Officers told Varis to leave, and he did.

"Nancy Varis wanted to end their marriage, but that Kerry Varis did not, according to family members.

"Family also told police that Nancy Varis `felt her husband would never carry out the threats he sometimes made towards her,` the release says.

"The nine children range in age from 5 years old to 18 years old. "


From The Advocate...

Friday, July 4, 2014

Three Found Dead In Home


"SAN ANTONIO, TX — Police are investigating an apparent double murder/suicide that happened at a West Side home.

"Officers were called to a home on the 400 block of Globe, near Culebra and 36th Street, around 4:45 p.m. for a `welfare check.`

"Neighbors contacted police and said the couple living there had been having marital problems, and they were concerned because they hadn't seen any activity at the home throughout the day.

"When officers arrived, they spotted what appeared to be blood. They then entered the home and found the bodies of three people, a woman in her 30's, a teenage girl, and a man.

"Police said they believe the man died from gunshot wound to his upper body. They have not released information on how the woman and the teenage girl died.

"Police said there was no signs of a burglary or robbery. They would not confirm the incident was a double murder/suicide but said they haven't ruled out anything."


From WOAI-TV...

Domestic Dispute Leads To Stabbing


"DULUTH, GA — A man has been charged in a failed suspected murder/suicide in Gwinnet County.

"Officers were called to 825 Club Place Wednesday night and discovered 32-year-old Marisol Rodriguez dead of an apparent stab wound. Vicente Rivadeneira-Torres, 36, was found nearby collapsed with a knife protruding from his chest. He was transported to a local hospital.

"Investigators said the couple had a domestic dispute just prior to the stabbing. Officer said they beleive Rivadeneira-Torres stabbed Rodriguez before turning the knife on himself.

"The couple’s 10-year-old daughter fled the residence to seek help and was not injured.

"Rivadeneira remains hospitalized in serious condition.

"Authorities charged Rivadeneira-Torres with felony murder, two counts of aggravated assault and one count of third degree cruelty to children. He will remain under guard while hospitalized.

"The couple’s daughter was released to the custody of relatives."


From wsbtv.com...

UPS Driver Finds Suicide Note


"ATHENS, AL — Police said two people are dead in what appears to be a murder/suicide.

"Athens Police Chief Floyd Johnson said a mother and her son were found dead in a home on 305 Longview Street after 1 p.m. Wednesday.

"Johnson said it appears the 39-year-old male shot his mother.

"Johnson said a UPS truck driver making a delivery found what appeared to be a suicide note on the door and called police, who entered the home and found the bodies. Johnson said both had been shot with a semiautomatic pistol.

"Cynthia Brundidge lives across the streeet. She said she was shocked and saddened after finding out what happened. She said the two kept to themselves most of the time but were friendly.

"`Basically the only thing I knew is she went to work everyday and then her son went to dialysis everyday. I never really had a chance to talk to her but I did talk to the son one day just for a couple minutes just chit chat,` said Brundidge.

"Police have not released the names of the victims.

"The bodies have been sent to Huntsville for autopsies."


From waaytv.com...