A physician assistant couple is dead after police say a husband fatally stabbed his wife, then stepped in front of a semi-truck, killing himself.
The couple was identified as Jason and Jessica Wray, both 45 years old, of Madison, Wisconsin.
Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes said during a press conference, “Officers responded to a report of a dead body at the couple’s home on Sunday. After investigating, a woman’s body was discovered with multiple stab wounds in what looked to be a violent attack. She was pronounced dead at the scene.”
Barnes continued, “As officers tried to locate her husband, numerous calls started to come into 911, stating a man was struck by a vehicle, but not seriously injured. After being struck the man got back into his car and drove to Interstate 90. He then got out of his car once again and stepped in front of a semi-truck.”
“Once we arrived on the scene, the man was pronounced deceased,” Barnes finished his statement.
Dane County Medical Examiner’s Office reported that Jessica died of blunt force trauma and multiple stab wounds, while Jason died from his injuries sustained after being hit by the semi-truck during his suicide attempt.
University of Wisconsin Health confirms Jessica and Jason both worked as physician assistants at their medical facility.
“We are devastated by the news of this unspeakable tragedy and our hearts are with the family and friends suffering this terrible loss,” UW Health Press Secretary Emily Kumlien said. “The well-being of our staff and providers is a top priority, and we will continue to provide emotional support to them as they grieve. We urge the community to respect the privacy of all who are grieving and to show support through the fund established for the family if you are able.”
The couple had three children together. Police did not note if the children were present at home during the altercation.
Jason Wray’s sister, Jessica Schaack said, “My brother secretly suffered from 20 plus years of depression. He kept a lot of it hidden from family and tried to address by himself. Our father passed away three years ago and it seemed to really push him over the edge, along with the whole Covid-19 pandemic and trying to be the breadwinner for his family.”
“It obviously doesn’t take away from what he did and my heart hurts for not only Jason, but for my sister-in-law and their kids too. This has been such a traumatic situation for our family to experience,” Schaack mournfully continued.
In the meantime, a GoFundMe campaign to help defray funeral costs and support the Wray children is currently active.
