Authorities are investigating a suspected murder-suicide in Wilmington, North Carolina, after a couple was found dead in their home on Thursday. The discovery was prompted by a smartwatch that detected a fall and alerted 911.
Tracey Parker Willetts, 58, and Stephen Larnell Willetts, 65, were found with apparent gunshot wounds. Deputies from the New Hanover County Sheriff's Office gained entry to the residence through a garage door after responders could not initially access the home. Both individuals were pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators have gathered evidence suggesting Tracey Willetts fatally shot her husband before taking her own life. The motive for the incident remains unclear.
A Troubled Past
Family members revealed that the couple had endured significant tragedy in their personal lives. According to a Facebook post by Fuller Royal, who identified himself as Tracey's second cousin, the couple lost their son, Zack, in 2013, followed by the death of their other son, Colby, the next year. The circumstances surrounding the sons' deaths were not specified.
Royal expressed his condolences, stating, "I can't begin to imagine how much that hurt and what they went through. I pray they are reunited with their boys and that everyone is whole, safe and at peace."
Community Reflections
Friends and neighbors remembered Stephen Willetts for his friendly demeanor and community involvement. Fuller Royal described him as a "lifelong friend" who "helped a lot of people" during his career as an EMT. Neighbor Wyatt Heartline recalled Stephen as being consistently friendly and always willing to engage in conversation. Another neighbor, Andy Johnson, mentioned Stephen's service in the Army and that they often spoke about their military experiences.
Friends of Tracey Willetts described her as someone dedicated to doing the right thing for her community. The couple was also known in the Wrightsville Beach paddleboarding community, where they were described by Jared Covington, owner of Wrightsville SUP, as energetic, outgoing, and devoted to each other.
Neighbors expressed shock at the events, noting that Wednesday marked the couple's 40th wedding anniversary.