Two people died in what appears to be a domestic-related murder-suicide around 7:40 p.m. Aug 1. in the 2000 block of S.E. Oxmoor Terrace of Port St. Lucie, the police department said in a news release.
Port St. Lucie Police officers responded to multiple calls reporting possible gunshots. Upon arrival, officers found a woman, later identified as Elizabeth Ortega, 50, with a gunshot wound. She was airlifted to a hospital where she later died.
A 50-year-old man, later identified as Ralph Varela Sr., was found dead with what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound, officials said.
Investigators found Ortega and Valera were involved in a long-term relationship but were in the process of separating. Valera used an AR-style rifle to shoot Ortega inside the home they shared, according to police. Video shows Ortega attempted to flee to the front yard, but Valera continued to shoot at her.
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The incident appears to be isolated and there is no threat to the public or surrounding areas, officials said.
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The area of S.E. Triumph Road and S.E. Veterans Memorial Parkway remained an active crime scene Aug. 2 and residents should expect a heavy police presence. Drivers are encouraged to seek alternate routes if possible, officials said.
Valeria Bartra is TCPalm's food reporter. Contact her at [email protected], 772-978-2246 or follow her on Instagram @vbartrajourno.
This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Police: 1 man, 1 woman dead in Florida domestic murder-suicide