A husband and a wife were both found dead in their home in Mt. Vernon, according to media reports.
The City of Mt. Vernon released the following statement:
At approximately 5:49 am, MVPD responded to a home on South 14th Ave to investigate a report of shots fired. Upon arrival, two persons were located, deceased, from apparent gunshot wounds. Three minors, who were in the home at the time, have been re-located to a nearby residence with family members.
At this time, MVPD does not believe there are any ongoing threats to the public. Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard said, “This morning our community was shaken to the core by the news of a spousal murder-suicide which left three minor children orphaned and a family with more questions than answers. In these unprecedented times of increased financial, emotional, and environmental stressors, it is more important than ever to watch for warning signs of mental and emotional stress and domestic violence.
Its why we launched the Wellness Division within our own Mount Vernon Police Department, to provide resources for those dealing with increased mental, emotional and environmental stressors.
“While I join the people of Mount Vernon in praying for this family during this unimaginably
tragic time, I also call on our community to seek the help they and their families need. So many of us were raised with the stigma associated with reaching out for help or have been told to protect our private matters at all costs. We must break the silence and stigma of seeking assistance. I encourage everyone to reach out to your loved ones periodically to see how they are doing, most importantly check on the individual who you perceive to be strong. Resources and help are waiting for you,” said Mayor Patterson-Howard.
Anyone that may have information about this incident, contact the Police Department at 914-665-2510, all calls will be kept confidential.