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YORK CO., Va. — An elderly couple is dead after the husband shot and killed his wife before taking his own life in York County Tuesday afternoon, according to the York-Poquoson Sheriff's Office.
YPSO Sheriff Ron Montgomery says around 12:30 p.m., deputies were sent to a home in the area of Thornrose Drive and Glen Laurel Way, where they discovered a 90-year-old man and an 88-year-old woman, both of whom died at the scene. Sheriff Montgomery says they had been living in York County for close to 20 years.
Earlier on Tuesday, the sheriff says while family members were speaking with the couple on the phone, they became concerned with the tone of the husband's voice. This lead to relatives driving to the couple's home for a wellness check, where they found the couple dead.
Sheriff Montgomery says he believes the husband was trying to end his wife's suffering, citing the fact that she had a fairly severe case of dementia.
"They had been married well over 70 years. And I believe that... the main reason were going to find out that this occurred is one of them had severe dementia, and the other one just couldn't bear to watch that anymore," Sheriff Montgomery said.
News 3's Kelsey Jones spoke with neighbors who say they were shocked this incident happened.
"It's unfortunate that they felt that this was their only course to take, and I wish there was more resources out there for people" said Nicole Hill.
According to the CDC suicides are the 8th leading cause of death in the U.S.
Dr. Sarah Williams a licensed psychotherapist emphasizes the need of talking openly about suicide.
"Although it is an uncomfortable topic, it is important that dialogue occurs so that first of all there's awareness, prevention and opportunity for individuals that are experiencing suicidal thoughts and ideations to receive the right support" said Dr. Williams.
Dr. Williams says key signs of someone who might be in a mental health crisis can consist of mood changes in behavior, their thought pattern may be disorganized, and they may be difficult to communicate with.
Kelsey asked Nicole a nearby neighbor if this situation will lead her to check on her neighbors.
"If anything it will make me try to develop more of a relationship with my neighbors" Nicole said.
This is the second murder-suicide incident that's happened in York County in the past five months, Sheriff Montgomery noted. He urged the public to have conversations with their elderly relatives to prevent such tragedies.
For those who may be caring for a loved one, mental health experts say there are places and groups available to help when things get tough.
If you or someone you know is suicidal or in emotional distress, we encourage you to use the following resources:
The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
- You can call or text 988 if you’re in a suicidal crisis or emotional distress
- Findtreatment.gov
National Alliance on Mental Illness Helpline
- You can also text “HelpLine” to 62640 or call 800-950-6264 for support
- Open Path Psychotherapy Collective
