Local elderly couple die in probable murder/suicide

An apparent murder-suicide was discovered at a Park Avenue residence Friday morning.

Rhonda Webb found her parents, Elmer G. and Roberta L. Anderson, deceased with gunshot wounds and sitting in their recliner chairs. She reported the incident to the Carrollton Police Department at 8:39 a.m., according to a news release.

Assistant Chief Steve Abbott and Officer Tim Gividen responded to the Anderson’s home at 207 Park Ave. Roberta was 83 years old and Elmer was 80 years old.

“The investigation revealed Mr. Anderson shot Mrs. Anderson and then shot himself,” Chief Mike Willhoite said in an interview Monday.

The chief said the couple did not have any past issues with domestic problems. “It’s truly believed, due to the significant health issues of each of them, we believe that was the motive behind the shootings,” he said.

Gividen is conducting the investigation.

— By Kristin Sherrard