Five people were shot and killed in an apparent murder-suicide at a residence in Georgia on Friday, authorities say.
The deceased were family members who lived at the home in Douglas, a city in south Georgia.
Officers responded to reports of an active shooter later on Friday, Brannen Pruette, the Douglas police chief, said at a Saturday news conference. One of the victims placed the initial emergency call.
Responding officers found four deceased adults inside the home. A fifth individual was transported to a hospital, where they were later pronounced dead.
Details around how the tragedy unfolded remain unclear, including who opened fire.
Hours before the deadly shooting, a female victim called police to complain that her husband was “killing her” with his smoking. EMS transported her to a local medical center.
Police did not offer additional information, citing the ongoing investigation.
“We recognize the profound impact this loss has on those closest to the victims in our community. We ask everyone to respect the privacy of the family and allow them the time and space they need to grieve,” Pruette said.
Charlie Davis, the Douglas city manager, said it was the area’s second murder-suicide incident in three months.
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“Domestic violence doesn’t know race. It doesn’t know religion. It doesn’t know geographic location,” Davis said. “We encourage everyone to refrain from speculation and allow the family the space, dignity and compassion they deserve during this time.”
In a similar episode of violence, a man in Pennsylvania fatally shot several family members on Friday, before killing himself.
In the US, you can call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. In the UK and Ireland, Samaritans can be contacted on freephone 116 123. In Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline is 13 11 14. Other international helplines can be found at befrienders.org