Police discovered five people, including a retired veterinarian couple and two relatives, shot dead in a Mundelein, Illinois home on Sunday in what authorities suspect was a murder-suicide. The victims were found in different rooms of the house, all having sustained close-range gunshot wounds from a handgun.
Authorities have not yet officially released the identities of the deceased. However, reports indicate the homeowners were retired veterinarians Rebecca Schmidt, 77, and James Schmidt, 80, and their son Bryan Schmidt, 51. Bryan Schmidt previously operated a cat clinic with his parents, which has since closed.
Neighbors in Mundelein, a village known for its low crime rate—63% below the national average—expressed shock at the incident. Some residents initially mistook the gunshots for fireworks leading up to a Chicago Bears game.
The discovery was made after the daughter of the elderly homeowners, who lives in California, requested a welfare check. She had not heard from them and was concerned.
Investigators found two handguns at the scene. A gray Volkswagen Jetta parked at a neighboring funeral home was also cordoned off and examined by authorities.
The victims are believed to be the Schmidt couple, two of their relatives, and a partner of one of the family members. Police suspect the perpetrator was someone in a relationship with one of the deceased.
Autopsies are currently being conducted as the investigation continues.