A married couple was discovered dead in their North Carolina residence in what officials suspect to be a murder-suicide. Authorities identified the couple as Stephen Larnell Willetts and Tracey Parker Willetts, both found with gunshot wounds in their Wilmington home.
The New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office stated, “Evidence suggests this case involves a murder-suicide, in which Tracey Willetts fatally shot her husband before committing suicide.”
The discovery followed an EMS call early Thursday morning. A smartwatch worn by one of the Willetts detected a fall. This triggered an automatic 911 call when the alert was not canceled, prompting emergency services to respond, as reported by WWAY.
The couple had seemingly celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary a day before they were found dead. Their social media profiles suggest a shared passion for paddleboarding. They were well-known in the Wrightsville Beach paddleboarding community, with numerous photos showcasing their activity.
A neighbor revealed that Stephen Willetts, aged 65, was a retired Army serviceman. Fuller Royal, identified as Tracey Willetts’ second cousin, expressed condolences on social media, noting that Stephen was a lifelong friend and dedicated EMT.
Tragically, the Willetts had lost both of their sons in close succession between 2013 and 2014. Royal wrote, “I can’t begin to imagine their pain. I hope they are reunited with their boys and are now at peace.”
The Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that the investigation is still ongoing.