Venice Police Department-Venice, Fl
Thursday afternoon (3/9), the Venice PD responded to a residence in the 900 block of Villas Dr. where a man and woman were found deceased from apparent gunshot wounds.
VPD’s initial findings have led investigators to believe the woman was a victim of homicide by the male decedent, who then took his own life.
The identification of the female victim is being withheld due to crime victim privacy laws. However, the male perpetrator is identified as Charles D. Payne (50 yoa). Further details will not be released at this time as the investigation continues.
Our hearts go out to the victim and families who have suffered this loss. We encourage anyone who is in an abusive relationship to seek out help. Resources do exist to help you. You can always call VPD, but if you’d feel more comfortable you may call or text our local domestic violence partner SPARCC at 941-365-1976.