Man, two children die after apparent murder-suicide in Surprise

SURPRISE, AZ – Surprise Police say a man and his two children are dead after an apparent murder-suicide at a home Monday.

Officers were called to a home near Litchfield and Bell streets around 12:30 p.m. Monday. A woman who claimed she was getting a divorce applied for a welfare check after her children reportedly didn’t go to school Monday and she couldn’t reach their father.

Police entered the home and found the 34-year-old man and his 7- and 6-year-old children dead inside. All had reportedly been shot.

According to officials, the man was receiving psychiatric treatment.

This incident comes just days after another surprise investigation into a man who shot his toddler and held his mother hostage during a domestic violence situation. The baby in this incident is said to have “progressed” and the woman was not seriously injured. The man was found dead after the house he was barricaded in burst into flames.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues:

• Call 988. This suicide and crisis lifeline is available 24/7 to provide free and confidential emotional support to anyone experiencing a suicide, substance abuse or mental health crisis.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a domestic violence situation:

• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-SAFE (7233)
• Maricopa County DV Hotline: 480-890-3039
• Phoenix Family Advocacy Center: 602-534-2120

Click here Other information and resources available on domestic violence and shelter.