Four adults discovered deceased in Bronx NYCHA apartment in suspected murder-suicide incident.

A tragic incident unfolded on Wednesday morning in the Bronx, where a gunman killed three members of his family before taking his own life. The shooting occurred in an apartment at the Castle Hill Houses, part of the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA), located on Lacombe Avenue near Castle Hill Avenue. The victims included the gunman’s 75-year-old mother, Theresa Stukes, his 26-year-old daughter, and her boyfriend, who is believed to be in his twenties.

According to police sources, the 44-year-old shooter contacted a relative in another state prior to the incident, suggesting they check on their family. This prompted the relative to reach out to a local family friend, who arrived at the apartment around 9:40 a.m. After discovering the grim scene, the friend called the police. Officers arrived to find the shooter deceased on the couch, the weapon still in his hand. His daughter and mother were found in the rear of the apartment, while the daughter’s boyfriend was located near the door.

The names of the shooter and his victims have not yet been released. Henry Tucker, a longtime resident of the building who knew the family well, identified Stukes and expressed shock at the violence. Having recently celebrated her birthday on October 30, Stukes was described as a loving matriarch who was cherished by her community.

Tucker characterized the gunman’s daughter as a kind-hearted health care worker with a gentle demeanor. He noted his own interactions with the shooter, indicating that he seemed to be in good spirits and was actively involved in his family’s life prior to the incident.

Witnesses in the neighborhood expressed disbelief over the tragedy, describing Stukes as perpetually positive and full of life. Jeannette Martinez, a neighbor, recounted how Stukes would often support community events and provide guidance to those around her, deeming her a vital figure within the local landscape.

The aftermath of the shooting left the community in mourning, as local residents grapple with the shocking nature of the crime and its devastating impact on the affected family. Many, like Luis Rolan, reflected on the strong presence Stukes had in their daily lives, mourning the loss of someone they regarded highly.

The police have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting, and the broader community is left to process the profound tragedy that unfolded within their midst.