A California doctor and his wife were fatally shot outside their home on Sunday and a burned body found hours later may be the suspected killer.
Police in Simi Valley responded to reports of gunshots at a home in Ventura County, about 40 miles northwest of Los Angeles, shortly after noon on Sunday and found two victims lying in the driveway, each with multiple gunshot wounds.
Both victims were taken to the hospital, where they were later pronounced dead. They were identified on Tuesday as Dr. Eric Cordes, a radiologist, and his wife, Vicki. Both are believed to have been in their 60s.
Police characterized the shooting as a targeted attack, not a random act of violence.
Authorities said a black Honda Civic sedan was seen fleeing the area following the shooting, according to the Los Angeles Times.
A burning black Honda Civic was found hours later in Chino, about 75 miles away. The charred remains of a deceased person and a gun were near the burning car, according to Chino police. The person has not been identified and a cause of death is pending, though cops said it’s being investigated as a possible suicide.
Ballistic tests are being conducted on the gun to determine it’s the weapon that was used in the double murder.
“Based on preliminary information, investigators believe the incidents are likely connected,” Chino police said. “Official confirmation is pending further investigation and final determination by the Coroner’s Office.”
Simi Valley Police Sgt. Rick Morton said neighbors speculated the suspect may be the stepson of one of the victims, but declined to confirm that speculation, according to ABC 7 L.A.
“We’re unable to substantiate who that suspect is, due to the condition of the subject that is located in Chino,” Morton said. “We’ve heard speculation. We have not put out any information as far as who the subject is. We don’t want to misidentify someone, so we’re waiting until we get confirmation from the medical examiner to see who that was…in that vehicle.”
