Couple found dead in suspected murder-suicide at Phoenix home with 2 kids inside, police say

Wife reportedly kills husband, takes own life while kids were at home

A married couple is dead following a murder-suicide in North Phoenix. FOX 10's Nicole Krasean learns how this tragedy is leaving a lot of questions in the minds of those who knew the family.

PHOENIX - A man and a woman are dead in what police believe to be a murder-suicide in North Phoenix. 

What we know:

Officers responded to the incident at around 5:14 p.m. on Jan. 18 near 2900 West Bell Road. A caller said a man and woman were found unresponsive inside a home with a gun nearby. 

Two people, identified as 41-year-old Sam Ertebati and 42-year-old Celestina Ertebati were found dead.

Police discovered that the pair were married and lived at the home. Two children inside got worried when their parents were sleeping late and called a family member, who came over and found the couple inside their bedroom.

"Preliminary information indicate that Celestine shot Sam, before turning the gun on herself," officers said. No one else was hurt. 

Married couple dead in apparent murder-suicide

Phoenix Police say a wife shot and killed her husband before turning the gun on herself, while two children were inside the home.

Dig deeper:

Neighbors say this was the last home they expected something like this to happen in. The tragedy is leaving a lot of questions in the minds of those who knew this family.

A small memorial formed outside the home— a tribute one neighbor says will undoubtedly grow, as loved ones of Sam Ertebati process the news. They called him a great person, and said his home was often busy, as neighbor kids came over to play with his children.

A basketball hoop in the driveway is said to be the most-used one on the block. Now, the street lay quiet as the memorial glows against the darkness.

What we don't know:

The events leading up to the shooting were not made known. 

What's next:

This remains an ongoing investigation. 

Help is available. If you or a loved one is feeling distressed, call or text 988. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provides free and confidential emotional support to civilians and veterans. Support in Spanish is also available. You can also chat with crisis counselors via online chat.
CLICK HERE for the warning signs and risk factors of suicide.

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

Risk factors, protective factors, and warning signs

While there is no single cause for suicide, there are risk factors and warning signs which may increase the likelihood of an attempt. Learning them can save lives. (148 kB)

Map of the incident location.