Authorities found a North Carolina couple dead inside their home in what investigators believe was a murder-suicide.
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Deputies located Stephen Larnell Willetts and Tracey Parker Willetts at their home on Rowsgate Lane in New Hanover County on July 30.
Authorities responded to the residence after one of the victims' smartwatches automatically dialed 911 when it detected either a fall or the absence of a pulse.
North Carolina Couple Found Dead in Suspected Murder-Suicide
Investigators with the New Hanover County Sheriff's Office believe Tracey Willetts fatally shot her husband before taking her own life.
Both victims suffered apparent gunshot wounds.
"Based on the evidence gathered during the investigation, detectives believe this to be a murder-suicide in which the wife fatally shot her husband before taking her own life," a statement reads.
"The investigation remains active, and additional information will be released as it becomes available."
A friend told local media that the couple had recently celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary and had just returned home from a trip.
Neighbor Wyatt Heartline remembered Stephen as one of the friendliest people in the neighborhood.
"One of the friendlier guys in our neighborhood, honestly, and he was always down to have a conversation," Heartline said. "I really liked him and it's just kind of horrifying what just happened."
"The neighborhood is thoroughly shocked."
Community Mourns Beloved Couple
Officials said the incident is an isolated one and that there is no known threat to the public.
The Wrightsville Beach paddleboarding community knew Stephen and Tracey well. The couple built lasting friendships there over many years.
"We became like family, just sharing a love for being outside on the water, paddleboarding," Jared Covington, owner of Wrightsville SUP, said.
Covington said he had known the couple for more than a decade. He described them as energetic, outgoing and deeply devoted to one another.
Investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Officials have not released any further information while detectives continue their investigation. They say they will provide updates as more details become available.
