A man and a pregnant woman were found dead inside their Los Angeles home on Friday, July 10, in what authorities are investigating as a murder-suicide. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) confirmed that both individuals, believed to be in their 40s, suffered from shotgun wounds. The incident occurred in the 1300 block of Holmby Avenue in the Westwood neighborhood, where officers responded to a report of gunshots around 5:45 a.m. The identities of the deceased have not been released.
Neighbor Describes Couple as Happy
A neighbor, Rich Schultz, told KTLA that the couple appeared happy and had recently celebrated a baby shower on July 4. The woman was reportedly eight months pregnant. "They seemed like a pretty happy couple, talking, walking hand-in-hand," Schultz said. "Nothing seemed amiss. One of those crazy things that who knows what was going on underneath."
Investigation Ongoing
The LAPD has not disclosed a motive for the incident. The Los Angeles Fire Department pronounced both individuals dead at the scene. This case is part of a recent string of suspected murder-suicides in the Los Angeles area, including incidents in Canoga Park, North Hills, and Santa Monica.
Background on Recent Cases
In June, a man allegedly shot his 10-year-old twin sons before taking his own life in Canoga Park. In May, a husband, wife, 6-day-old infant, and 2-year-old child were found shot to death in North Hills, with authorities believing the mother was responsible. In April, a nonprofit executive in Santa Monica is believed to have shot his wife before killing himself.