Double Homicide / Suicide Investigation
On 07/19/2021 at 6:52 pm Venice Police responded to a welfare check in the 900 block of Guadeloupe West Ave. The caller reported his friend did not show up for a planned get-together earlier that day, so he decided to check in on him. He became concerned when he found all the family vehicles present, but received no answer at the door, so he called Venice PD for assistance. His 81-year-old friend lives there with his 78-year-old wife and 50-year-old step-son.
While checking the exterior of the home, officers could see through a side door window and were able to observe an apparently deceased male with a suspected gunshot wound. Officers then forced entry into the home and discovered total of three individuals deceased from apparent gunshot wounds. The investigation thus far indicates that the husband shot his wife and 50-year-old step-son, then turned the gun on himself ending his own life.
This is an active investigation that is being conducted along with the Medical Examiner’s Office. In keeping with Florida law we are withholding information that would lead to the identity or address of the victims. Our sympathy goes out to the family and friends who are suffering during this loss.