In Vancouver, Washington, a grim discovery unfolded as a police drone investigating a welfare check found a family-of-five dead inside their home. The Clark County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) responded to concerns about the family’s safety and, upon arrival, suspected a “murder-suicide involving a firearm.” The tragic incident occurred on the 11500 Block of NE 92nd Street in the Orchards neighborhood.
The CCSO initiated the welfare check after a reporting party received a distressing text message from a family member claiming harm to others at the residence. Unable to establish contact with anyone inside, and with indications of potential firearm involvement, the Southwest Washington Regional SWAT team was called in for assistance.
Utilizing an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS), CCSO observed several deceased individuals in the home. SWAT operators and Tactical Emergency Medical Support (TEMS) medics later confirmed the deaths of five family members, including the suspected perpetrator. The Clark County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit (MCU) is leading the investigation, which is in its early stages.
The incident sheds light on the concerning rise in murder-suicides in recent years, with 2022 witnessing a record-high number of such cases. The authorities have stated that there is no perceived threat to the public, emphasizing an ongoing and active investigation into this tragic event.