New Jersey police were greeted with a horrific scene, after finding a family of three dead.
A New Jersey man fatally shot himself after claiming the life of his wife and 15-year old son.
Roxbury police officers were called to the family’s Succasunna home around 10 a.m. on March 7 and found the bodies of Peter Ventricelli, 57, Kellie Ventricelli, 58, and their son, Anthony Ventricelli, 15, with gunshot wounds.
The grim and gore filled scene was discovered after a wellness check was made that one of the victim’s friends requested. The friend was concerned after they were unable to get in touch with them.
According to Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, the incident had taken place in the early-morning hours.
“This is a tragic murder suicide brought on by domestic violence,” Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll said in the release. “It is a heartbreaking loss for the Ventricelli family. Neighbors, schoolmates, friends and the Roxbury community as a whole are mourning this shocking and senseless loss of life.”
Investigators said they believe Peter Ventricelli, who worked as a private contractor, died by suicide after shooting and killing his wife, Kellie, and his son, Anthony. Police have not discussed a motive for Tuesday’s killings.
However, they did say there had been no previous calls to the couple’s home.
Roxbury Public Schools confirmed in a Facebook post that a high school student was among those found dead.
“It is with a heavy heart that we share the devastating news of the loss of one of our high school students,” the post reads. “The high school administration and staff have coordinated supports and resources for students and staff who may need them. Please keep all those involved in your heart, thoughts, and prayers.”
A neighbor said, “Anthony was one of the nicest kids. He was always trying to help others and acted very kind.”
Relatives also started a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for funeral expenses.
“The shock of this situation has our family at a loss for words,” the page says. “There will be much more added to this page once we allow ourselves time to process this enormous tragedy.”
The organizer goes on to explain how their relatives’ passing caused the family company to go out of business.
“The business was the sole income keeping my grandparents in the house that they built in 1965,” the fundraiser reads. “Any additional funds will go towards keeping my grandparents in their home.”
