"Suicidal" Man Not Suicidal Enough

"MESA, AZ — Mesa police are investigating a homicide in northeast Mesa in which a suicidal man is suspected of killing his wife and then fleeing toward Mexico.

"The suspect, Robert Benoit, 42, turned himself in to the Huachuca City Police Department and is being brought back to Mesa for booking, according to Mesa police Sgt. Ed Wessing.

"The victim has been identified as Joy Dockendorf, 37.

"Officers were dispatched to a home on East Sierra Morena about 3:10 p.m. Saturday after police received a phone call from a woman in Connecticut who said her son had killed his wife and was now contemplating suicide.

"Police treated the scene as a barricade situation, and after an hour, the tactical team entered the home and found Dockendorf's body. She appeared to have suffered a fatal gunshot wound, police said. Benoit was not in the house.

"When detectives contacted Benoit on his cellphone, he claimed he was suicidal and heading for Mexico, according to Wessing. Detectives convinced Benoit to turn himself in and are bringing him back to Mesa for booking."

From EastValleyTribune.com...

No Motive Released In Botched Murder/Suicide

"PORT RICHEY, FL — An elderly couple is in critical condition following an attempted murder-suicide, according to the Pasco Sheriff's Office.

"Deputies responded around 9:30 a.m. to a domestic stabbing at 7329 Isle Drive in Port Richey.

"Investigators say a husband stabbed his wife multiple times before stabbing himself. Both are in their 60’s, but their names have not been released.

"Detectives have not released a motive for the crime."

From abcactionnews.com...

Fugitive Kills Cop, Woman Before Shooting Himself

"SAN DIEGO, CA — A suspect found dead in his apartment after the killing of a San Diego police officer died by suicide, and a woman found next to him died by homicide, authorities said after an autopsy Saturday.

"Holim Lee, 30, died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head, the San Diego County Medical Examiner's Office said in a statement posted on its website.

"Lee and the woman—27-year-old Lucky Xayasene—died sometime Wednesday and their bodies were found in the apartment Thursday, the statement said.

"The statement said Xayasene also died of a bullet to the head and her death was ruled a homicide, but it did not specify who fired the shot that killed her.

"The pair were found dead some eight hours after gunfire broke out with police and U.S. marshals serving a pair of warrants for Lee, a former seaman with the U.S. Coast Guard. Police officer Christopher Wilson was shot and killed.

"One of the warrants, issued July 30, accused Lee of assault with a deadly weapon. Another, dated Oct. 19, was issued for violation of terms of his parole in an armed robbery case.

"Lee's family told The Associated Press that he had hoped to climbed the ranks of the Coast Guard but had turned to drugs and crime after he left the service in 2005.

"His brother Hojin Lee said Holim Lee found it `very difficult to live as a civilian.`

"Wilson, 50, was a 17-year veteran of the city police force with two children."

From MercuryNews.com...

Pricey House Fire May Be Murder/Suicide

"PIERSON, MI — Autopsies are complete, but the Montcalm County Sheriff isn't saying what killed a Pierson Township couple found dead in their home.

"Fire crews discovered the bodies of Kathleen Green, 56, and her husband Michael, 59, after putting out a fire at their home on 3063 Shorecrest Dr. late Thursday night.

"The Montcalm County Sheriff says the Greens were not killed in the fire. However he doesn't think a suspect is out stalking the neighborhood.

"Court records show the Greens were in the process of getting a divorce. They also recently put their $625,000 home up for sale."

From WZZM13.com...

Suspicious Death May Be Botched Murder-Suicide

"KASOTA, MN — A 23-year-old man was arrested Friday in connection to the death of a 20-year-old woman at an apartment complex in Kasota, Minn.

"Le Sueur County Sheriff Tom Doherty says deputies went to Ridgely Park Apartments Friday after getting a call that a body would be found there. Meanwhile, the Sherburne County sheriff's office says an Elk River man was arrested in the investigation.

"Friends of the victim, identified as Jessica Buboltz, told us that she had only moved into the Ridgely Park Apartments recently.

"`She was one of the sweetest people ever, always happy. She would literally give you the shirt off her back if you needed it,` said a friend Sally Gatzke, who said she had just spent some time with Jessica Thursday night.

"Investigators say something in the following hours went very wrong between Buboltz and Tyler Wicklund.

"Deputies think after Wicklund killed Buboltz, he drove 90 miles with their 1-year-old daughter with him to his house in Elk River. Just before 10 a.m. Friday, Wicklund was threatening to kill himself and when help arrived, police said he told them about what he did."

From WCCO.com...

Kids Report Murder/Suicide At Day Care

"CELINA, OH — Police in Celina are investigating what appears to be an apparent murder-suicide.

"Officers said shooting was reported around 1:15 p.m. at a house at 719 South Elm Street.

"Police Chief David Slusser said it appears to be a domestic shooting between a man and a woman who may be in their 30s. Police said they do not know the relationship of the man and the woman.

"According to police, the woman runs a day care center at the house on South Elm Street. They said there were seven children, who are younger than 6, who were outside playing when the shooting happened, and none of them witnessed it.

"Officers said the children, as a group, went to a neighbor's house to report what had happened."

From WHIOTV.com...

Pending Divorce, Health Problems Motivated Murder/Suicide

"COLLINSVILLE, IL — Two people are dead after what appears to be a murder-suicide in Collinsville, Illinois.

"It began around 12:30 a.m. on Friday on Deer Chase.

"Authorities received a 911 call from a relative reporting that 41-year-old Patricia McNatt had been shot. Police arrived on the scene and found Patricia in her bedroom shot to death. She had been shot multiple times with a .38 caliber.

"The suspect was Patricia's estranged husband 42-year-old Paul McNatt.

"Police found his white Chevrolet truck a short time later in the 2100 block of North 60th Street in Washington Park, Illinois.

"Paul's body was discovered inside the truck with what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot to the head. The .38 caliber revolver was located in his possession.

"The preliminary investigation revealed Paul was involved in a motor vehicle crash and suffered head trauma during that accident. A family member indicated that Paul's disposition was adversely affected during the motor vehicle crash.

"Authorities also learned Patricia was filing for a divorce and Paul was unsettled by the pending dissolution of their marriage."

From KMOV.com...

Dead Couple Evicted

"POST FALLS, ID — The Post Falls Police Department says they are investigating the discovery of two bodies in a Post Falls rental house as a murder/suicide.

"On Thursday afternoon officers responded to a 911 call at 509 E. 11th Ave. in Post Falls by the landlord of the house who was there as part of an eviction process and stated that he believed the renters were deceased inside the home.

"When officers arrived they found 54-year-old Jeffery A. Hayes and 38-year-old Christina Mandriguez dead from gunshot wounds to the head. A handgun was found in the area of both bodies and based upon other evidence at the scene, it is believed that this is a case of murder/suicide.

"Post Falls Police are continuing their investigation."

From KHQ.com...

Killer Was "Obsessed" With Teen

"NEWPORT, MI — Police say a man kidnapped and killed a MidMichigan teen.

"Police found 15-year-old Taylor Manley and 38-year-old Raymond Bush dead in a vehicle Wednesday night.

"They say he shot her multiple times, and then he killed himself.

"Clare County Sheriff John Wilson says, `The suspect used to would come up and stay at a residence near their residence and they became friends with the family. The victim actually looked up to him as a big brother.`

"Prosecutors say, Bush betrayed that trust in July when he had sex with Taylor who's less than half his age.

"The suspect was supposed to show up the 80th District Court. He never showed up, and that's when the sheriff's department took action.

"`I had an idea that I didn't think she was going to show,` says Michelle Ambrozaitis, Clare Co. Prosecutor.

"That's because the Ambrozaitis received a call from Taylor's dad, who she was staying with, saying she was gone, with possible forcible entry to his house.

"An Amber Alert went out for Taylor, and a bench warrant went out for Bush.

"Taylor's dad also said Bush had been texting Taylor the day before, which was against the court order of no communication.

"Bush was believed to be obsessed with her. He had a tattoo of her name on his back.

"The prosecutor was contemplating aggravated harrassment charges, but when police found the two, they were dead in this vehicle in a Newport cemetery.

"`Clearly, our hearts and prayers go out to the family. This is very devastating. She was a very bright young woman, vibrant, she was spunky and this is really sad,` says Ambrozaitis.

"`It's so shocking. I personally know this family. I know this girl. It's hard to look into a mother's eyes and tell her your daughter's not coming home.`"

From uppermichiganssource.com...

UPDATE:

10/29/2010 — Ex-girlfriend claims killing was a "death pact"...

Protective Order Never Served

"HARTFORD, KY — Two people are dead after a murder/suicide in Western Kentucky on Wednesday.

"It all started Wednesday morning in Hartford.

"Kentucky State Police received a call at 9:10 a.m. Wednesday from Hartford Police Department requesting investigation of an attempted murder.

"Hartford Police arrived at 427 E. Frederica Street in Hartford and found Barbara Ward, 66, of Hartford, lying outside with an apparent gunshot wound.

"Barbara died a short time later at the Ohio County Hospital.

"Officers from multiple agencies immediately began looking for her estranged husband, Carl Ward.

"The Daviess County Sheriff's Office [said] that Barbara had filed for a protective order against Carl earlier this month.

"The order had not been served because officers couldn't locate Carl to serve him.

"After the shooting, officers began a search for Carl that led them to his mother's house on KY 279 in West Louisville.

"According to KSP, Carl's body was discovered after they placed a robot inside the home to search the premises.

"Daviess County Coroner Bob Howe says Carl died of a self inflicted gunshot wound to the head.

"Deputies [said] that Carl had a history of violence.

"Daviess County Sheriff's Office says Carl was charged with first degree assault in 1977.

"Deputies say Ward shot his ex wife and a man at their home in Daviess County.

"The investigation is ongoing."

From 14WFIE.com...

Killer Used House Fire To Lure Victims

"FAIRMONT, MN — A house fire that drew authorities to a southern Minnesota neighborhood was set by a man inside as part of an ambush plot that left a police officer and a neighbor wounded, police said Wednesday.

"The man who set the fire died of a self-inflicted gunshot to the head, police said. Authorities in Fairmont did not offer a motive for the plot.

"Officer Chad Sanow, 36, a six-year veteran of the force, was shot in the chest with `a large bullet` Tuesday night near the burning home on 415 Webster Street, police said in a statement released Wednesday morning.

"A neighbor, Matthew Von Watermulen, 28, was shot in the abdomen, police said. The gunman then shot himself in the head and was found dead on the property, police added.

"Sanow and Von Watermulen, who were shot while walking toward the front of the home, were hospitalized and in stable condition. The gunman's identity had not yet been released.

"`The fire is ... believed to have been arson, started by the gunman in an attempt to ambush the first responders,` police said."

Source: StarTribune.com...

Killer Dies In Firey Car Crash

"TAMPA, FL — Officials are trying to piece together the events from Tuesday that left a woman dead in her Tampa apartment and her on-again, off-again boyfriend dead in a fiery St. Petersburg crash.

"At 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Tampa police received a 911 call with a woman screaming and then hung up.

"Officers were dispatched to the scene, 5101 Seminole Avenue North, and discovered 25-year-old Larsen Hunt dead.

"About an hour and a half later, 30-year-old Jason Skinner died after the car he was driving crashed into a home on Burlington Street in St. Petersburg.

"A police spokesperson said the driver was originally being chased by officers, but officers broke off the chase.

"Witnesses said the car went airborne across 16th Street, then lost control, crashed into the house and caught on fire.

"Officials said Skinner was immediately a suspect in Hunt's death - and that she had a restraining order against him."

From Bay News 9...

The Dead Wore Pajamas

"WILLOWICK, OH — A 79-year-old man shot his 79-year-old wife in the head, then turned the gun on himself, police said.

"The bodies of Dorothy and Robert Rickel were discovered Monday when one of their four grown children visited their Ronald Drive home.

"The daughter regularly checked on her parents, Lt. Paul Pallante said. She got to their house about 11:45 a.m. and found a note from her father on the kitchen table.

"She read it, walked outside and called police.

"`The note was apologetic, but didn't say anything specific,` Pallante said.

"The bodies, clad in pajamas, were in the bedroom.

"The family said they weren't aware of any critical health concerns; Robert had beaten cancer and Dorothy was using a walker after having a minor stroke, Pallante said.

"Detectives continue to investigate. The Cuyahoga County Coroner's Office is performing autopsies."

From Cleveland.com...

Woman Expected To Survive Botched Murder/Suicide

"GAINESVILLE, FL — A man died and a woman survived what Gainesville police said appeared to be a murder-suicide attempt early Tuesday.

"According to police, Michael Peterson, 33, of Gainesville, was pronounced dead at Shands at the University of Florida within hours of the 3:40 a.m. incident.

"A woman found in a car with Peterson, Sabrina Young, 31, also of Gainesville, remained in critical condition but was expected to survive, said police Lt. Tim Hayes.

"Police were dispatched after someone called to report hearing gunshots in the area of 200 Northwest Third Street and said a light-colored Crown Victoria was in the area.

"One of the first officers to reach the area noticed a car matching the description and turned on its lights, Hayes said. The driver turned a corner and the vehicle came to a stop on the sidewalk on the west side of the Vault nightclub, at 238 W. University Ave.

"Inside the car, police said they found Peterson in the driver's seat with what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound to his temple. Young was in the passenger seat with two gunshot wounds. Both were taken to Shands.

"Police said they also recovered a handgun that had apparently been used in the shootings.

"`We understand that they (Peterson and Young) had previously dated, but we are investigating what their current relationship was,` Hayes said."

From Gainesville.com...

They Came For The Funeral

"BEVIL OAKS, TX — The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office is investigating a murder-suicide in Bevil Oaks involving two older brothers, according to Sheriff Mitch Woods, in what could be the second such case in a matter of days.

"The men were in town to attend a family funeral. They were shot at about 1 a.m. Tuesday in the 13400 block of Alaskan Drive off Highway 105 in Bevil Oaks.

"Sheriff Woods told KFDM News the two brothers, one in his early 60's and the other in his late 60's, came from out of town to attend a funeral and were staying at their sister's home.

"`There was some sort of argument,` said Sheriff Woods. `Alcohol was involved. We're not exactly certain what they were arguing about. One man pulled a handgun and shot his brother. Their sister called 911. While she was on the phone with our dispatcher, another shot was fired. The man killed himself.`

"One of the brothers was from Tomball.

"Justice of the Peace Ray Chesson is conducting the inquest.

"The Sheriff's Office is also investigating the Friday night shooting of a husband and wife in Central Gardens. It might be a murder-suicide but the Sheriff's Office said it must gather more facts before a final determination is made. "

From KFDM.com...

Unwelcome Guest

"ESCAMBIA FARMS, FL — Two people were found dead in an apparent murder-suicide Monday afternoon.

"According to a media release from the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, Polly Ann Boaze, 60, and Milan D. Tanton Jr., 52, were found by a neighbor in Boaze’s mobile home.

"Investigators determined Boaze was apparently shot by Tanton, who then shot himself. The incident happened at 8382 Thames Road sometime before 2 p.m.

"Tanton, originally from Dothan, Ala., was temporarily living with Boaze. He was in the process of packing up his things on Monday after Boaze had asked him to leave."

From chipleypaper.com...

Woman Commits Double Murder/Suicide In Texas

"LAMAR COUNTY, TX — Now to a developing story: what authorities believe may be a murder suicide just North of Paris, Texas.

"Details are still coming in, but the Lamar County Sheriff did confirm the shooting in Powderly, Texas, about twelve miles North of Paris.

"Investigators believe a mother went to a home in Powderly where her son was located, and then shot and killed a woman at that home off Northwood Road. She then took her nine-year old son home with her and shot him. She then turned the gun on herself.

"The boy was flown to a Dallas hospital, there is currently no update on his condition.

"The Sheriff [said] both women did die from gunshot wounds."

From KTEN.com...

UPDATE:

10/28/2010 — Killer posted plans on Facebook...

Death On The Mountain

"HUFF MOUNTAIN, WV — Two people were killed Sunday in a fatal Wyoming County shooting.

"Sheriff Randall Aliff said Jerry England, 48, shot and killed his wife Sandra England, 44, around 9:30 p.m.

"It happened on Huff Mountain, just north of Oceana on Route 10.

"According to Aliff, England fled the scene and went to Logan County, where he took his son at gunpoint from the home and headed back toward Oceana.

"At that point, the pursuit began and England shot up at least two police cars and injured a trooper.

"Deputies said they negotiated with him for around an hour after he overturned his vehicle, but he eventually turned the weapon on himself."

From WVNSTV.com...

Few Details In Fatal Domestic Dispute

"ARLINGTON, TX — Arlington police are on the scene of a death investigation Sunday evening in what authorities are calling a murder-suicide.

"Police responded to the call Sunday afternoon in the 2500 block of Colleen Drive in Arlington.

"Authorities described the incident as a domestic dispute.

"The identities of the victims have not been released.

"Arlington police did not release any other details."

Source: Arlington Citizen-Journal...

Police Find Bodies During Welfare Check

"MADISONVILLE, OH — Police are investigating an incident they are calling a murder/suicide that occurred Sunday afternoon.

"Cincinnati Police were called to the 5600 block of Luhn Avenue to check on the welfare of the residents at 3:00p.m. When Officers arrived, police discovered two victims with gunshot wounds inside the home.

"The two people were pronounced dead at the scene. The names of the victims have not been released.

"Cincinnati Police Department's Homicide Unit is investigating the incident as a murder/suicide."

From FOX19.com...

UPDATE:

10/26/2010 — Wife is suspected shooter...

Botched Murder/Suicide Was "Slash & Burn"

"FLUSHING, NY — A man was found with his throat slashed at the scene of a Queens fire yesterday in what investigators believe was a botched murder-suicide, police sources said.

"Firefighters pulled a second man—suspected of killing the first—from the building on Roosevelt Avenue in Flushing. He later died.

"The suspect stabbed the owner of an immigration office at about 3 p.m., then set the building ablaze, the sources said.

"The violence may have stemmed from a dispute over immigration papers..."

From The New York Post...

BONUS:

10/24/2010 — NY Times account of fire...

UPDATE:

10/25/2010 — Police: argument may have been "lovers' quarrel"...

Retired Cop, Wife Found Dead

"LAKELAND, FL — A former Chicago Police officer and his wife are dead in an apparent murder-suicide, according to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.

"A home healthcare nurse discovered the couple’s bodies at their home at 4841 Goldenview Lane around 11:15 a.m. Friday morning.

"Investigators say that 84-year-old Robert Lintz and his wife Renee, 83, had been married for 60 years. Both had suffered from significant medical issues, detectives said.

"They said it appears Robert shot Renee once in the head, then turned the gun on himself, and shot himself in the head .

"Robert Lintz was a retired Chicago Police officer who served from 1953 to 1979.

"The medical examiner will conduct autopsies on the couple on Sunday. The case remains under investigation."

Source: abcactionnews.com...

Child Finds Bodies

"CENTRAL GARDENS, TX — The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office is investigating the shooting death of a couple in their bed, in what an officer says is an apparent murder-suicide.

"Dr. Tommy Brown is conducting an autopsy. An Officer says the shooting is still under investigation.

"A child found the bodies.

"Major Jimmy Singletary told KFDM News deputies responded to a 911 call at about 10 p.m. Friday in the 100 block of North 5th Avenue off Twin City Highway in Central Gardens. Singletary says an 8-year-old found the bodies of the man and woman in the bed.

"Investigators say they'd been shot. An autopsy has been ordered but the shootings appear to be a murder-suicide, according to Singletary.

"The Sheriff's Office isn't releasing the names of the man and woman until relatives are notified.

"A woman who says she is a family member [said] the female who died was 8 months pregnant."

From KFDM.com...

UPDATE:

05/12/2014 — Daughter becomes advocate against violence...

Pair Survives Botched Murder/Suicide

"LISBON, LA — A man shot his wife and then himself in an apparent botched murder-suicide attempt, authorities said.

"Both are expected to recover and charges are pending against the husband.

"Billy Singleton, 39, shot his 48-year-old wife, Sheronda, in the chest Tuesday afternoon (October 13) and then shot himself in the chest, Claiborne Sheriff Ken Bailey said.

"The shootings happened near the community of Lisbon, Bailey said. The Sheriff's Department got a 911 call from Mrs. Singleton's cell phone about 4 p.m. and tracked the call to that location, Bailey said.

"Bailey said the couple, who are from Union Parish, had been driving down Louisiana Highway 152 when they got into an argument. They pulled onto a side road, where the shootings happened.

"Each was airlifted to LSU Hospital in Shreveport, where they were on separate floors. Sheriff's detectives went to the hospital Wednesday to get information from the couple about what led to the shooting, Bailey said.

"The gun believed used in the shooting was recovered, Bailey said."

From KTBS.com...

"He Seemed In Good Spirits"

"WEATHERFORD, TX — A suspected murder and suicide happened on 4337 Tin Top Road, Weatherford, this afternoon, said Parker County Sheriff Larry Fowler.

"According to a release by the sheriff's office, the Parker County Sheriff’s Criminal Investigation Division is investigating the death of two people found at a residence this afternoon.

"Fowler said the victims—James Good and Jean Good—were said to be husband and wife and both appeared to have suffered fatal gunshot wounds. The call was placed to dispatch just after 1 p.m. The couple was discovered in the yard of the home near a rear entrance of the residence, according to the sheriff's office.

"A family friend was said to have visited the home to check on the welfare of the couple, found the couple and dialed 911. A handgun was found at the scene, which will be processed as evidence and submitted to a crime lab.

"Fowler said there was not a history of calls for the address. The victims will be transported to the Tarrant County Medical Examiner’s Office in Fort Worth, where an autopsy will be performed on both James Good, 67, and Jean Good, 73.

"Investigators are not releasing further details of the incident, pending the ongoing investigation and autopsy results.

"`We are still obviously in the early stages of the investigation,` Fowler said. `The manner and means of the deaths will be withheld pending autopsies. We do not wish to speculate beyond what we currently know. Any casualty such as this is just a sad situation all the way around.`

"Neighbors across the street, Bill and Pam Homsher, said the couple was from Arizona and had only been living in the community about six months.

"Bill Homsher said he saw Good working on his fence one day and he seemed to be a happy man and in good health.

"`He seemed in good spirits,` Bill Homsher said.`He seemed just fine.`

"Pam Homsher said she saw Jean Good wave to her once but had never met her."

From The Weatherford Democrat...

Wife, Son, And Dog Are Victims Of Murder/Suicide

"PHOENIX, AZ — Police have released the identities of three people found dead in a north Phoenix home and say it's a murder-suicide.

"Detectives said Friday that 81-year-old Richard Schmalenbach is believed to have fatally shot his 79-year-old wife Mary Estella Schmalenbach and his 50-year-old son Tom Schmalenbach before turning the gun on himself.

"The bodies were discovered Thursday night at the home on 3542 West Las Palmaritas Drive.

"Police also believe Richard Schmalenbach killed the family's dog, which was found inside the home.

"Neighbors reported that they heard gunshots coming from the home last Saturday, but they didn't contact police. One neighbor looked over the home's backyard fence Thursday afternoon and saw what appeared to be a dead body and called authorities."

From KSAZ FOX 10...

Cops Find Bodies After Domestic Disturbance

"ASOTIN, WA — A Clarkston Heights couple was found dead from gunshot wounds in their home on 2720 Scenic Hills Drive Wednesday night, and investigators are calling it an apparent murder-suicide.

"Capt. Dan Hally of the Asotin County Sheriff's Office says officers were dispatched to the scene for a domestic disturbance at around 9:45 p.m. He said when they arrived they found the bodies of Shannon B. McCullough, 38, and her husband Craig A. McCullough, 45.

"Hally said evidence at the scene indicated Craig McCullough shot and killed his wife, then turned the gun on himself.

"Three other family members were present in the home but were not harmed.

"Hally said Clarkston Police and the Washington State Patrol assisted at the scene."

From KLEWTV.com...

SWAT Team Finds Bodies

"SIMPSONVILLE, SC — Police think the shooting deaths of a Simpsonville couple were a murder-suicide.

"Multiple media outlets reported that officers were called to a home on 210 Garrison Road about 3 p.m. Wednesday after someone reported hearing gunshots.

"A Greenville County sheriff's SWAT team tried to get a response from someone in the house by using a bullhorn. Simpsonville Police Lt. Ralph Bobo says officers then broke in a front window and found the bodies.

"Greenville County Deputy Coroner Karie Cain says the victims were 58-year-old James T. Bazzle and 45-year-old Traci L. Grant.

"Cain said autopsies were planned Thursday. She says investigators think Grant died before Bazzle.

"Bobo says the shootings appeared to be the result of a domestic dispute."

From The State...

Couple Found Dead In Home

"CORNISHVILLE, KY — A Mercer County couple was found dead Wednesday as the result of an apparent murder-suicide in their home, police said.

"Mercer County Coroner David `Sonny` Ransdell identified the couple as Dennis and Pat Blackburn, both 55.

"Dennis Blackburn was employed by the Lexington Division of Fire from 1983 until he retired as a captain in October 2007, said Battalion Chief Marshall Griggs.

"Pat Blackburn worked as a surgical technician at Central Baptist Hospital in Lexington, where she had been employed for 23 years.

"Capt. Scott Elder of the Mercer County Sheriff's Office said the two were found by a son shortly before 10 a.m. Wednesday at the couple's home at Votaw Road in western Mercer County.

"`Right now it appears to be a murder-suicide,` Elder said. The son went to the house after he learned that his mother had not arrived at work in Lexington.

"Pat Blackburn suffered stab wounds and a gunshot wound, and Dennis Blackburn suffered a gunshot wound, Elder said. The two were found in a master bedroom of the home about 10 miles west of Harrodsburg, near the Washington County line."

From kentucky.com...

Community Rocked By Murder/Suicide Of Dad & Kids

"RINGWOOD, NJ — A New Jersey father fatally shot his two young children before turning the gun on himself Monday night in a tragic murder-suicide, authorities said.

"According to police, 38-year-old Kurtis Birth was at his parent's house located at 21 Skyview Road in Ringwood when he shot and killed his own children—5-year-old Jada and 3-year-old Jordan—then killed himself.

"Police were alerted to the home by the children's mother, who grew concerned after learning that Birth had picked up the children from a Wayne Daycare Center without her knowledge.

"When officers arrived, they found Jada's body on an outside stairway landing. Cops then found Birth's body slumped over in the driver's seat of his vehicle parked outside the home. He died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head, investigators said.

"Police entered the home, searching for 3-year-old Jordan and discovered his lifeless body on the first floor.

"Both children suffered single gunshot wounds to the back of their heads. All three were pronounced dead at the scene.

"The children's mother Zoey Mendoza-Birth, 37, arrived at the house after the children were shot. Although not injured but traumatized upon learning of the tragic shootings, she was transported to St. Joseph's Hospital in Paterson for a medical evaluation.

"`This is a type of event that rocks a community,` Chief of Police in Ringwood Bernard Lombardo told reporters as he held back tears. `And it shouldn't happen anywhere.`

"It wasn't immediately clear if the couple were estranged.

"The investigation into the incident is ongoing."

From WPIX.com...

UPDATE:

10/24/2010 — "It didn't have to end like this"...
10/25/2010 — Killer had attempted suicide before...

Motive Unknown In Deaths Of Grandmother & Grandson

"CRESTLINE, CA — A man found his wife and 9-year-old grandson dead from gunshot wounds inside his home Monday night, an incident sheriff's investigators say was a murder suicide.

"James Snyder found the victims about 5:30 p.m. when he entered his home in the 500 block of Springy Path.

"The couple's grandson has not been named.

"`They've had custody of the grandson since birth,` said San Bernardino County sheriff's spokeswoman Jodi Miller.

"Investigators are searching for the child's mother before releasing his identity.

"Sheriff's officials say Denise Snyder shot her grandson and then turned the gun on herself.

"A motive in the shooting is not known."

From The Sun...

Another Tragic Teen Murder/Suicide

"WILLISTON, ND — Two Williston teens have died as a result of an apparent murder-suicide Monday afternoon at mobile home park at the 800 block of 28th Street West.

"Police say Anne White, 16, was pronounced dead at the Mercy Hospital in Williston. She died after her former boyfriend Gabriel Dye, 18, shot her with a semi-automatic handgun and then turned the gun on himself.

"Dye died in an air ambulance en route to Minot or after arriving at the Trinity Hospital in Minot from the self-inflicted gunshot wound.

"Around 3:18 p.m., Dye reportedly used a semi-automatic pistol to shoot White in her front yard at the Glenn Villa Trailer Park.

"`It happened in the front yard of her house,` said Williston Police Detective Mark Hanson. `Gabe Dye shot Anne White and then shot himself.`

"He said a semi-automatic pistol was used by Dye in both shootings.

"Hanson said they had been in a dating relationship in the past, but that had ended two months ago.

"He said both teens had been transported to Mercy Medical Center in Williston. Dye was being been airlifted to Minot.

"White was a student at Williston High School and Dye was a freshman at Williston State College.

"Hanson said the investigation will continue. The teens' bodies will be sent to the North Dakota State Medical Examiner in Bismarck.

"Hanson said the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation and the Williams County Sheriff's Office are assisting with the investigation."

From The Bismarck Tribune...

"He Kind Of Gave Me The Creeps"

"HAZEL DELL, WA — Clark County Sheriff’s Deputies are investigating an apparent murder-suicide at a Hazel Dell apartment complex.

"Deputies were dispatched shortly after 10 p.m. Monday to the 6300 block of Hazel Dell Avenue where they found a man and woman dead of gunshot wounds inside a duplex.

"Police identified the deceased as Brent M. Niedermark, 47, and Bonnie L. Eakins, 50.

"Both died of a single gunshot wound to the head. A .357-caliber handgun was recovered at the scene. It was loaded with .38-caliber bullets.

"The two had a long history of domestic violence, according to the sheriff's office. Eakins had active no-contact orders against Niedermark.

"Christine Consiglio said she moved into her unit at Sleepy Hollow Apartments about a year ago — a week after Niedermark. She said she never knew his name.

"`He kind of gave me the creeps,` said Consiglio, 24.

"Eakins didn’t live with him at the complex, but stayed over often, said Consiglio, teeth chattering as she looked at the blue Ford pickup that belonged to her neighbor.

"She said she was watching a movie Monday night with her boyfriend when she heard a woman’s voice: `Oh my God, my friend.`

"Consiglio ran outside and called 911. Apparently, she said, Eakins had been missing for two days, spurring her friend to come by to check on her and discover she was dead.

"`I thought I saw her car show up Thursday or Friday,` Consiglio said of Eakins.

"Niedermark lived in unit 6304A.

"It was odd to look out Tuesday and see Niedermark’s older model truck parked in the driveway, Consiglio said. She said he used to park on the lawn to make space for Eakins' car.

"Consiglio said the last time she saw Eakins her face was bloodied.

"`The cops were out here often,` she said."

Source: The Columbian...

2nd Murder/Suicide At The Sierra Verde Ranch

"SELIGMAN, AZ - Authorities in northern Arizona say two bodies have been found near a remote cabin in Seligman in what appears to be a murder-suicide.

"The Yavapai County Sheriff's Office says a deputy was following up on a welfare check Sunday and located the bodies of a man and woman in the Sierra Verde Ranch.

"The names of the two victims are being withheld until their relatives can be notified.

"Authorities did not immediately say how the man and woman died, but they say there are no suspects being sought at this time.

"Detectives met Monday with area residents and recovered evidence from the scene as part of their investigation into the deaths."

From ABC15.com...

NOTE:

See also this attempted murder/suicide in the same area (from August 2010)...

Domestic Situation Leads To Road Rage

"NOBLESVILLE, IN — A woman was run off the road before being shot and killed in a Noblesville subdivision by a man who later shot himself, police said.

"The shooting happened just after 5 p.m. Monday in the Meadows of Shelbourne at Deer Path subdivision in the 15000 block of Dry Creek Road near Verizion Wireless Music Center.

"Police said a man ran a woman off the road, got out of his vehicle and shot her. She was later pronounced dead.

"`I told my wife it looked like somebody shot through the window. I could see somebody slumped over in the car and didn't look they were alive,` said neighbor Mike Haffey.

"A vehicle matching the description of the shooter was located on Interstate 465 near U.S. 31 a short time later. But by the time officers reached the vehicle, the driver had shot himself, police said.

"He was transported to Methodist Hospital. Initial reports that he had died were incorrect. His condition was not released Monday night.

"Investigators said the shooting appeared to be the result of a domestic situation. It's the first slaying in Noblesville in four years.

"`It's a very shocking incident to have to walk out into your neighborhood and see a vehicle that's riddled with bullets as this one is down here,` said Lt. Bruce Barnes.

"`It's unfortunate. It's tragic.`

"`Something like this happens somewhere else, not Noblesville,` said neighbor Kristy Boyer.

"Further details were not immediately released."

From TheIndyChannel.com...

Family Member Finds Couple Dead

"MEMPHIS, TN — Relatives of an older couple found dead in a Whitehaven house on 1247 Rosecliff Ave. identified them as 69-year-old James DeBose and his wife of 48 years, 63-year-old Edna DeBose.

"Police have told the family it appears to be a case of a murder-suicide.

"A family member found them at about 10:30 a.m. Sunday morning after the couple failed to return phone calls.

"The family said James DeBose had been suffering from multiple sclerosis and his health had deteriorated more rapidly in recent years.

"Family members said the DeBoses had four children and 11 grandchildren."

From The Commercial Appeal...

Bodies Found In Police Station Parking Lot

"GASTONIA, NC — Gastonia police are investigating an apparent murder-suicide in the parking lot of the police department Sunday morning.

"At 2:51 a.m., an officer noticed the brake lights on a 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe sport utility vehicle parked outside the police department, police said. He found two people dead inside from gunshot wounds, according to a police department news release.

"Police said it appeared that the driver, Randall Newman, 45, shot and killed his wife, Laura Newman, 47, and then committed suicide.

"Randall Newman was employed by Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement. Laura Newman was coach of the varsity cheerleaders at Ashbrook High School in Gastonia."

From charlotteobserver.com...

UPDATE:

01/08/2011 — Credit card stolen from corpse of victim...

BONUS

MySpace page of mortuary thief...

UPDATE:

01/08/2011 19:25 EDT — Mortuary worker commits suicide...

Welfare Check Finds Two Dead

"NAPLES, FL — The Collier County Sheriff’s Office is now calling the deaths of two people in East Naples a murder-suicide.

"Through their investigation, detectives determined 41-year-old William John Healy III killed his 33-year-old wife Claudia Isabella Krautwurst Healy and then killed himself.

"The couple’s bodies were found inside their residence at 7965 Umberto Court around 11 a.m. Friday.

"Deputies responded to the residence to conduct a check on the couple’s welfare after William Healy failed to show up for work over the past two days.

"Deputies entered the residence and discovered the bodies in separate areas of the home.

"The Collier County Medical Examiner's Office will perform the autopsies and determine the cause of death.

"An investigation continues."

From naplesnews.com...

UPDATE:

10/20/2010 — Was Claudia a "slave" or a "witch"?

Deputies Arrive In Time To Find Bodies

"HERNANDO, FL — Deputies are investigating an apparent murder-suicide in Citrus County.

"According to reports, deputies received a call about a suicide threat at a home on 3710 Elise Court in Hernando at 4 p.m. Thursday.

"When they arrived at the property, they heard a shot. Shortly afterward, they found Kenon Caldwell, 68, dead from what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. His body was found in an outbuilding on the property.

"Deputies began searching for the man's wife, Bertha Caldwell, 66, who could not be found. They said family members had reported her husband had earlier said things that caused them to worry about her safety.

"Deputies began searching the woods around the couple's home. They found Caldwell's body in a vacant mobile home not far from the residence. She had also been shot.

"Detectives are continuing their investigation into the deaths, which they believe are the result of an apparent murder-suicide."

From BayNews9.com...

Hiker Finds Bodies Of Dead Teens

"LAKELAND, MN — Two teens found dead Tuesday evening on a bluff overlooking a Lakeland park died by homicide and suicide, according to a preliminary ruling from the Ramsey County Medical Examiner's office.

"The bodies of Jacob Z. Campbell, 14, of Lakeland and his girlfriend, Lisa M. Grijalva, 15, of Oak Park Heights, were found in a clearing above Humphrey Park.

"Lisa was a victim of homicide, and Jacob was a victim of suicide, said Don Gorrie, chief medical investigator. Further tests are being done.

"A hiker found the bodies, and both teens -- ninth-graders at Oak-Land Junior High School in Lake Elmo -- died of gunshot wounds. A shotgun was found at the scene."

From StarTribune.com...

Midnight Confrontation Leaves Two Dead

"FINKSBURG, MD — Police have identified a 51-year-old Sykesville man as the suspect in an apparent murder-suicide that occurred in Finksburg early Thursday morning.

"Gregory A. Martin, of the 4600 block of Doncrest Lane in Sykesville, was found dead in the backyard of his former home and where his estranged wife still lives, at 2403 Shawnee Drive in Finksburg shortly after 7 a.m.

"Maryland State Police investigators recovered a .357 caliber handgun next to Martin's body.

"Earlier, police had found Steven W. Focht, 48, of 1511 Pilgrim Lane in Finksburg dead from an apparent gunshot wound in the driveway of his home. One of the vehicles in Focht's driveway was Martin's, according to a state police press release.

"Initial evidence showed that Focht arrived home from work shortly after midnight and Martin pulled into the driveway behind him. A confrontation occurred in the driveway and Focht was shot multiple times in the upper torso, according to the release.

"Investigators believe Martin than ran into the backyard of his previous residence and committed suicide.

"Focht and Martin had an ongoing dispute that had began when the two were neighbors, according to state police. Police responded to the neighborhood on two separate occasions for disputes between the two in 2007 and 2008, according to police.

"No criminal prosecutions resulted in either incident, however electronic court records show both men were charged with second-degree assault in a 2008 incident. Peace orders were taken out by both men against each other after that incident, according to electronic court records.

"Both men's bodies will be taken to the medical examiner's office in Baltimore for autopsies.

"Police arrived at the scene around 12:15 a.m. after receiving 911 calls reporting shots fired near Pilgrim Lane, and found Focht's body in the driveway. Martin was determined as a possible suspect and police conducted a search for him that involved a state police helicopter, K-9 units, a tracking team, the Special Tactical Assault Team Element and other troopers.

"As daylight came, a trooper saw the body of a man lying in the backyard of a residence at 2403 Shawnee Drive."

Source: Carroll County Times...


THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: "Shoot thy neighbor as ye would shoot thyself."

Death On The 9th Floor

"DENVER, CO — A man and a woman were found dead Wednesday morning in an apparent murder-suicide, Denver police said.

"Officers were asked to check on on the man because he had not shown up for work since last Thursday. The officers found the man and a woman dead inside a ninth-floor apartment at Governor's Park, 777 North Washington, at 11:22 a.m.

"`Detectives were called to the scene and the preliminary investigation indicates that this was a murder suicide,` said Sonny Jackson, Denver police spokesman.

"He said the investigation was it its preliminary stages.

"The Denver medical examiner will release the names of the two after they are positively identified."

From TheDenverChannel.com...

Death On The 9th Floor

"DENVER, CO — A man and a woman were found dead Wednesday morning in an apparent murder-suicide, Denver police said.

"Officers were asked to check on on the man because he had not shown up for work since last Thursday. The officers found the man and a woman dead inside a ninth-floor apartment at Governor's Park, 777 North Washington, at 11:22 a.m.

"`Detectives were called to the scene and the preliminary investigation indicates that this was a murder suicide,` said Sonny Jackson, Denver police spokesman.

"He said the investigation was it its preliminary stages.

"The Denver medical examiner will release the names of the two after they are positively identified."

From TheDenverChannel.com...

Brother & Sister Hospitalized After Discussion Turns Deadly

"FORT LAUDERDALE, FL — A South Florida man has died and his sister remains hospitalized after an attempted murder-suicide.

"According to police, 23-year-old Juan Orozco and his sister, 25-year-old Jesnishia Orozco, visited their mother, who works at a cigar stand at Beach Place, near Las Olas Boulevard and A1A, Wednesday afternoon. Police said, the siblings were discussing money and living arrangements when the male turned the gun on his sister, then himself. `We do have two people shot. They are brother and sister,` said Fort Lauderdale Police Sergeant Frank Sousa. `Both of them have been transported to Broward General Medical Center. They're both in critical condition, the brother in a little bit worse shape than the sister.`

"Witness Michael Milillo said, "`We heard three crazy gunshots, heard a lady screaming, everybody ran away.`

"`Mother came out, witnessed it and started screaming,` said Katherine Rodriguez, another witness.

"Laurie Podewell also witnessed the shooting. `Then, I seen him lean over the thing, and he shot two more times with a black gun.`

"Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue transported the siblings to Broward General Medical Center. The male died shortly after he arrived at the hospital. Meanwhile, his sister remains in critical condition. Rodriguez said, `You see the girl, I mean, they looked like they were both shot right directly in the head.`

"Hundreds of people, including Timothy Johnson, were at the South Florida hot spot at the time of the shooting. `Ladies were screaming, and next thing you know, the cops were everywhere,` he said.

"Witness Hank Sentowski said, `Crime scene, the detectives, they had the whole place cordoned off within two minutes.`"

From WSVN.com...

Teenager Finds Parents Dead

"WINTON, CA — Merced County Sheriff's deputies are investigating the suspicious death of two people in Winton.

"Investigators said the deaths may be a murder-suicide. The cause of the deaths, however, hasn't been confirmed and the investigation continues.

"Around 8 a.m. Wednesday a 15-year-old boy called 911 after finding his mother's body, lying in her bed. An ambulance responded to the residence at 7305 Anne Circle, and personnel found a woman, 44 years old, with trauma and obvious signs of foul play. Deputies responded to the scene and found a second victim, a 48-year-old male, next to the bed, according to the sheriff’s department.

"A 13-year-old boy was also found alive in the house. The two teens are now in the custody of Merced County Child Protective Services. Deputies haven't released the officially identity of the victims. Neighbors have identified them as Darryl and Christi McCarthy.

"Deputy Tom MacKenzie, sheriff's spokesman, said he couldn't elaborate on the victims' wounds, in order to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation."

Source: Merced Sun-Star...

Two Dead In Luxury Retirement Home

"SPRING, TX — A couple in their late 80s died Wednesday afternoon in an apparent murder-suicide in Spring, the second such incident in the area within a month, officers said.

"The couple lived at the Conservatory at Champion Forest, an independent-living complex in the 8200 block of Cypresswood Drive near Champion Forest.

"The shootings happened around 2:30 p.m. when `the husband took his wife's life then took his own,` Harris County Constable Precinct 4 Chief Jim Sumner said. `She was found in one room and he was found in another.`

"The man left a note, but authorities have not released its contents or the names of the deceased. It is unclear whether the couple suffered from life-threatening illnesses.

"Detectives are at the scene and are continuing to investigate.

"Jan Kaiser, the executive director of the three-year-old community, called the shootings isolated and unfortunate.

"`It is a very tragic and bad event that happened,` she said. `I thank the authorities for their quick response for getting here and providing privacy for the community and the family.`

"She added that she had no concerns about the safety of residents or Conservatory employees. About 90 people live in the complex, which has 190 apartments.

"`It was an isolated incident,` Kaiser said. `Our residents were never in danger and no one on our staff was in danger.`"

From chron.com...

Mom Stabs Twins, Sets Apartment On Fire

"FAIRFIELD, CA — A Fairfield woman stabbed her twin 3-year-old daughters to death, then stabbed and wounded herself and set the family's apartment on fire, police said today.

"Firefighters responding to the blaze at the Summit at Paradise Valley apartment complex at 3001 North Texas St. at about 10:30 p.m. Tuesday found the girls' bodies and the mother, police said.

"The victims' names have not been released. The mother was taken to John Muir Medical Center in Walnut Creek with non-life-threatening injuries.

"The fire was confined to the family's apartment."

Source: SFGate...

Pair Survives Botched Murder/Suicide

"HOMER, LA — Claiborne Parish sheriff’s investigators are still trying to nail down information about an apparent attempted murder and attempted suicide that happened Tuesday afternoon, Sheriff Ken Bailey said.

"Names and specifics were not immediately available. However, Bailey confirmed the injured couple are husband and wife and both are in LSU Hospital in Shreveport.

"`He shot her then himself,` Bailey said.

"The incident occurred at an oil well location east of Lisbon after 4 p.m. LifeAir flew one of the victims and Pafford Air One the other.

"Bailey said investigators were unable to get information from the couple Tuesday because of their conditions. They hope to be able to talk to them today."

From shreveporttimes.com...

Shooter Takes Ride Before Killing Himself

"CLARKSVILLE, TN — A man police say shot and killed a woman early Tuesday on Kingsbury Ct. reportedly took his own life.

"Homicide suspect Chauncey Dickerson, 23, shot himself as police approached him in a vehicle he carjacked after the shooting.

"Police were called to a domestic dispute on Kingsbury Ct., just before 3:00 a.m. where they found Kendra Renee Stanmore dead from a single gunshot.

"Police say Dickerson forced Stanmore out of the apartment before shooting her and according to witnesses ran back to the apartment with blood on his clothes and holding a gun.

"He left in Stanmore's car and drove to Hopkinsville, where the car broke down. He then carjacked a vehicle on Highway 68/80 near Pennyrile Parkway. The driver of the car, Gilbert Carter, 19, of Hopkinsville, stopped for Dickerson after being flagged down.

"Police caught up with the vehicle in Cedar Lake, Ind., and when they approached the vehicle, Dickerson shot himself in the head. Carter, who was driving, was not hurt. No shots fired by police."

From ClarksvilleNow.com...

Dad Kills Kids, Self In Domestic Violence Incident

"ALBANY, GA — Two young children are dead after a domestic violence case quickly escalated to a double murder suicide in Colquitt County. Around 10:30 Monday night the Colquitt County Sheriff's Office says Mr. McDougald shot his child and stepchild, ages eight and fifteen, before turning the gun and killing himself at their home on 178 Coolbreeze Drive just outside of Moultrie.

"The Sheriff tells us the call originally came in as a domestic violence case. Angela McDougald called 911 from a neighbor's house after her and her husband got into a physical fight in which she was injured. When deputies went inside her house to find Mr. McDougald, they found him and the two children dead with gunshot wounds.

"The McDougalds both worked in Colquitt County schools. She is a School Resource Officer at C. A. Gray Middle School and he was a paraprofessional at a Colquitt County Elementary school.

"The GBI is in the middle of their investigation and still on the scene. They aren't releasing any information right now on what led up to the fight, names of the victims, or how exactly they were killed."

From WALB.com...

2 Dead, 1 Injured In Murder/Suicide

"DES MOINES, IA — Des Moines police said a man shot a woman to death and wounded another woman and then killed himself.

"Police responded to a shooting report at 1898 East Marion at 11:48 p.m. Monday. When police arrived they found two women had been shot in a parked car in the driveway.

"Police said 24-year-old Carrie Russell died at the scene from a gunshot wound. Police said Leona Fatino, 56, had also been shot in the leg. She was transported to a local hospital. Her condition has not been released.

"Police said they checked on a suspect in the incident, 25-year-old Robert Sears, at 3904 Southwest 4th Street at 3:30 a.m. Police said Sears was found dead from what appears to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

"Police said Sears was an acquaintance of Russell."

From KCCI.com...

UPDATE:

10/13/2010 — Killer was "a good kid"...

Shooter Critical After Attempted Murder/Suicide

"MESA, AZ — Mesa Police say that a man is dead, after he was allegedly shot by his own son, who then failed in his suicide attempt.

"It happened at a home near Gilbert and Broadway in Mesa.

"Mesa Police say that an adult male shot his father, then shot himself.

"The father died at the scene, and the son was airlifted to Scottsdale-Osborn Hospital in critical condition.

"There's no information on their identities or the circumstances of the shooting."

From KSAZ FOX 10...

Deaths Blamed On Bitter Divorce

"PHOENIX, AZ — A couple going through a bitter divorce are both dead, in an apparent murder-suicide, police say.

"Officers responded to a call of shots fired about 6 p.m., at a home near 56th Drive and McDowell.

"Inside, they found a man and a woman dead from gunshot wounds. Detectives say that the couple was in the middle of a divorce.

"The woman had just been dropped off by a friend and was walking in the front door when she was met with the gun, according to police. Her husband then apparently shot himself.

"The subjects have not yet been identified. The investigation is ongoing."

From KSAZ FOX 10...

Domestic Issue At Root Of Fatal Incident

"SURRY, VA — A man and women were found dead Saturday afternoon after a dispute that became a murder-suicide.

"According to the Surry County Sheriff's Office, dispatch received a call reporting shots fired at 3:15 p.m.

"After police were called to a residence at the Pooles Mobile Home Park in the 8600 block of Colonial Trail East, officials found Floyd Jones and his wife, Daisy, shot to death, said Senior Deputy Michael Bailey.

"Bailey said that the husband and wife got into an incident and Floyd Jones fatally shot his wife and then turned the gun on himself.

"A domestic issue was at the root of the fatal incident, Bailey said. Floyd Jones left no notes explaining his motives behind the shooting, Bailey added.

"This was the first time that authorities were called to the Jones' residence, Bailey said.

"The trailer park where the incident happened is about five miles south of Chippokes Plantation State Park."

Source: dailypress.com...

Fight Over Divorce Leads To Attempted Murder/Suicide

"PORT ARTHUR, TX — A Port Arthur man is dead after he shot his soon-to-be-ex-wife in the leg and himself in the chest Saturday afternoon.

"When Port Arthur police arrived in the 3900 block of 30th Street at about 3:15 p.m., they found a woman with a gunshot wound to the leg lying in the driveway, according to a news release from the Port Arthur Police Department.

"They also found a man who had been shot in the chest, the release states.

"The couple have been identified as Gerald Lavergne, Sr., 50, and Melissa Lavergne, 48, said Maj. Raymond Clark with PAPD.

"The two were getting divorced, and the woman had gone to the home to pick up some belongings when she got into a fight with the man, the release states.

"The man then took a .45-caliber handgun from his car and shot the woman in the leg before shooting himself in the chest, the release states.

"He was pronounced dead at the scene. The woman was taken to Christus St. Elizabeth Hospital in stable condition.

"The police department's Criminal Investigations Division is investigating the shooting."

Source: Beaumont Enterprise...

Two Dead In "Great Neighborhood"

"CHICAGO, IL — A man and a woman have died after being shot on the street in the Edgewater neighborhood in an apparent homicide-suicide, police said.

"The shooting occurred about 3:20 p.m at the intersection of North Sheridan Road and West Granville Avenue on the Far North Side, police said. The victims were taken to St. Francis Hospital in Evanston, according to a Fire Department spokesman.

"They later were declared dead at St. Francis, according to police, but this could not be confirmed with the Fire Department or the Cook County medical examiner's office.

"The shooting took place just west of Sheridan Road on Granville Avenue, near the entrance to a parking lot between Sheridan and Kenmore Avenue, witnesses said.

"As the victim and the shooter walked side-by-side toward the lake, the gunman opened fire, firing three shots, then at least five more while the victim was down, a female witness said.

"The gunman then looked around, with gun in hand, as if looking for others, she said. He then sat on the curb before shooting himself in the head.

"The gunman never yelled or screamed before or after firing the shots.

"Two children walking nearby took cover in a nearby building, the witness said.

"`Regular T-shirts, jeans and sneakers. I thought it was two men,` she said.

"The witness said she was later told by police it was a husband and wife. But police detectives would not confirm their relationship to reporters.

"`This is a great neighborhood. You can walk to the store at night without worrying about anything,` she said.

"Another witness said he heard three shots and went to the window to see a man standing over another person who was already on the ground.

"The man with the gun shot the victim several more times, then turned the gun on himself, shot himself in the head, and collapsed to the ground, the witness said."

From ChicagoBreakingNews.com...

UPDATE:

10/13/2010 — Lawyer: shooter was "pretty level-headed"...

Conversation Turns Deadly

"MEDFORD, NY — Suffolk police are investigating a shooting and suicide that took place in Medford on Sunday afternoon.

"Police say Charles Kennedy, 66, had just returned home to 69 Rustic Lane after being released from Brookhaven Memorial Hospital Medical Center in East Patchogue for alcohol-related problems when he spoke with his girlfriend, 66-year-old Lynda Wenlund.

"After the conversation, police say Kennedy went to the master bedroom and retrieved a handgun from his safe, then shot Wenlund’s son, Daniel Guevara, once in the chest and then shot himself at approximately 2 p.m.

"Wenlund and Guevara both lived in the home with Kennedy.

"Guevara, 27, was transported to Brookhaven Memorial Hospital Medical Center and then taken to Stony Brook University Medical Center, where he was admitted in critical condition. Kennedy was pronounced dead at the scene.

"The investigation is continuing."

Source: LongIslandPress.com...

SWAT Finds Dead Couple After Stand-Off

"ERIE, PA — A husband and wife found dead at their house at 1838 Fairmount Parkway early this morning were killed in a murder-suicide, the Erie County Coroner's Office has ruled.

"The two, whose names have not yet been released, were killed by shotgun blasts after a domestic dispute, Deputy Coroner Korac Timon said. He said the investigation showed the woman was shot first, at close range, and the man's wounds were self-inflicted.

"Timon said the Coroner's Office plans to release the names of the couple today, after the office is certain the couple's relatives have been notified.

"The fatalities are believed to have occurred sometime around 4 a.m., when multiple Erie police units responded to the couple's house. The domestic incident escalated into a barricaded gunman, and the SWAT team was called in, police said.

"Two fatalities were reported, police said.

"Neighbors said a man and woman lived in the house at 1838 Fairmount Parkway with the woman's teen daughter. The girl was not believed to have been injured.

"Full details on what happened there weren't immediately available, although a neighbor said the SWAT team broke into the house and two bodies were removed.

"Police remained at the scene throughout the morning. Yellow crime scene tape was stretched in front of 1838 Fairmount Parkway. The door stood open and a police cruiser was parked across the driveway.

"Neighbors, who didn't want to give their names, said the family had lived there about six years and this wasn't the first time police had been called to the residence."

From GoErie.com...

Slash And Shoot Murder/Suicide

"PAHRUMP, NV — Nye County Sheriff Deputies responded to a residence on the 6100 block of E. Thousandaire Blvd. in Pahrump after they received a 911 call from a neighbor at around 4:30am Saturday. They called to report that a juvenile had come from that residence and had told them that her parents were both dead.

"Upon their arrival, deputies discovered a female dead from multiple stab wounds and a male dead from a self inflicted gunshot wound to the head.

"Detectives were called to the scene and immediately began an investigation.

"The juveniles from the residence have been turned over to the Division of Child and Family Services.

"The names of the victims have not been released at this time."

From KTNV.com...

One Dead, One Critical In "Mercy Killing"

"EWING, NJ — A son shot his mother in the head, killing her, then turned the gun on himself in a failed suicide attempt Saturday afternoon in what police are investigating as a possible mercy killing.

"Both the 89-year-old mother and her son, 67, had been suffering from medical problems, said Casey DeBlasio, spokesperson for the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office. However, the motive, along with everything else in the case, is still under investigation.

"DeBlasio said the names of the mother and son were being withheld as police were trying to notify other family members of the tragic news.

"The first report of the shooting came at about 4:45 p.m., DeBlasio said. The son had taken his mother for a walk near their home on Heritage Court just off of Scenic Drive.

"As they walked along the roadway, she said, the son pulled out a gun and shot his mother in the head. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

"The son then turned the gun on himself.

"He was still alive, however, when police and rescue personnel arrived on the scene. He was taken to Capital Health Regional Medical Center, where he was listed in critical condition after undergoing emergency surgery. He is expected to survive.

"DeBlasio said Ewing Township and Mercer County detectives were interviewing potential witnesses to the shooting, and that more information would be made available when possible."

From The Trentonian...

Men Found Dead Near State Park

"KIRKSVILLE, MO — Two Kirksville men are dead after what appears to be a murder-suicide.

"Adair County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a 911 call at 18955 State Highway 157 just after midnight. The call reported that an alleged shooting had taken place at a residence near Thousand Hills State Park.

"When they arrived on scene, the deputies heard what they believe to be a gunshot, and called the Kirksville Police Department for assistance.

"Authorities found the bodies of Kyley Sutton, 19, and Andrew Lough, 38, both of Kirksville. Their names were released by Adair County Coroner Brian Noe. According to the Adair County Sheriff’s Office, both men suffered apparent fatal gunshot wounds.

"Authorities are investigating the apparent murder-suicide."

From heartlandconnection.com...

Bodies Found In "Advanced State Of Decomposition"

"RIDGECREST, CA — An autopsy on two people found dead at their residence in the 600 block of West Mary Ann Avenue is scheduled for Friday.

"Ridgecrest Police Sgt. Justin Dampier said officers were dispatched to an address in the 600 block of West Mary Ann Avenue at approximately 11 a.m. to do a welfare check of the occupants.

"`We discovered that two occupants of the residence were deceased and in advanced stages of decomposition,` he said. `The preliminary investigation leads us to believe that this was a murder-suicide.`

"Investigators from the Ridgecrest Police Department, Kern County Coroner’s Office and Kern County District Attorney’s Crime Lab responded to the scene.

"The initial investigation indicated that the first victim died as a result of homicide and the second victim died as a result of suicide. However, a final determination will not be made until autopsies are conducted and the investigation is concluded.

"Names of the victim(s) and suspect will not be released pending positive identification and notification of the next of kin through the Kern County Coroner."

From The Daily Independent...