A husband killed his wife in an apparent murder-suicide in Florida.
The Bradenton Police Department said in a press release that officers responded to a report of a shooting at a Bradenton, Florida, home just before 8 a.m. on Thursday, October 22.
Once officers arrived at the scene, they discovered the deceased bodies of Phillip Edmond McClure and Brenda Gail McClure.
Authorities quickly determined that Phillip killed Brenda before dying by suicide. According to authorities in the same press release, Phillip, 60, and Brenda, 74, were estranged at the time of their untimely deaths.
After an initial investigation, authorities now believe that Phillip waited for other family members to leave the household before he entered the residence. He then fatally shot Brenda before he died by suicide.
Police have not yet revealed if they believe Phillip had a motive in the shootings. Additionally, it’s not currently clear who called the police to report the murder-suicide.
Authorities said in the press release that the investigation into the incident remains ongoing.
Not much is known about Phillip and Brenda’s relationship, including how long they were together and how long they were estranged prior to their killings. It’s also not known if they shared kids or who else was at the residence on the morning of the shootings.
The tragedy has left many neighbors in shock, with Kimberly McDonough telling ABC 7 that she always viewed the couple as friendly and kind.
“I know the woman, and I know how incredibly sweet and kind she’s always been to me, and he’s always been really sweet too,” McDonough said of Brenda.
Other neighbors confirmed to the outlet that Phillip and Brenda were separated, and one resident claimed there had been concerns about abusive behavior in the weeks before the shooting. However, police did not mention those allegations or reveal if the couple had a history of domestic abuse.
Over all, all of the residents that spoke to the outlet said they were surprised that the murder-suicide took place.
Several members of the community also reacted to the tragedy in the comments section of the police department’s Facebook announcement. “Very sad indeed… May they rest in peace. I hope that family and friends can find comfort in the difficult days ahead. It’s time for people to find their moral compass. If you or someone you know needs help please reach out. There are many free resources available,” one person wrote, and another added, “Prayers for their loved ones. Strength to the first responders who witness this and have to process.”
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.
