TOPANGA CANYON—Authorities discovered the bodies of an elderly couple in their home on Thursday, May 20. The incident took place in the 7200 block of Cirrus Way when police received a radio call of “unknown trouble,” shortly after 9 a.m.
Canyon News spoke to Lt. Romero of the LAPD Media Relations Section about the incident. He indicated that a 911 call was made, but was unable to disclose any information regarding who placed the call.
Upon arrival at the home, officers were unable to get a response from anyone inside. “Due to exigent circumstances the officers entered the home through an open rear door and found a man and woman, believed to be husband and wife, both 77 years of age, suffering from single gunshot wounds to the head,” stated the LAPD Blog.
Canyon News spoke to Detective Brian Pogue of the Topanga Area LAPD about the case. “The victims were James Ward and Anne Ward,” said Det. Pogue. He stated that the incident was indeed a murder-suicide. “There was no indication of any problems with the couple,” he added. When asked if the victims were found together inside the home Det. Pogue replied, “Yes.”
Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics pronounced both victims deceased on the scene. Police are asking anyone with any information on the incident to contact Topanga Area Detective Brian Pogue at 818-756-3362. During non-business hours or weekends, calls may be directed to 877-LAPD-24-7. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS 800-222-8477. Tipsters may also contact Crime Stoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most key pads) using a cell phone. All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Tipsters can also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on “web tips” and follow the prompts.
