Florida police are investigating what may have led a mother to kill her two children in a double-suicide that left neighbors stunned.
Deputies with the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office received a call on Thursday, February 26, from a troubled father who was traveling abroad at the time, worried after not being able to reach his wife and children.
When first responders arrived at a special beach area in Lakewood Ranch, they reportedly found an incident that was later described in the report as “violent.”
“This is a bad, bad thing for the deputies to testify,” Randy Warrenthe public information officer of the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, told local station WTSP on Friday, February 27. “What’s worse is this father and husband, who was on his way back from South America, flew in this morning and had to be informed of what happened here.”
Deputies said they found evidence of a crime outside the family’s residence, although they declined to provide further details. After entering the house, authorities found Josh James14, Emma James11, and their mother Monika Rubacha44, all dead.
The three bodies were found in separate rooms, according to a statement from the sheriff’s office.
Warren said investigators found that Monika shot and killed her children before killing herself.
Warren told WTSP that the family had moved to the neighborhood from Missouri about three years ago and that deputies had never received a call from the home before.
It was not clear how long Rubacha has been married to the father of her children, whose name has been withheld by police.
The medical examiner has yet to issue an official ruling on the cause and manner of death.
“What happened inside this home is something that probably no one could have predicted,” Warren told the station. “We don’t really know what led to that. It’s amazing to even think what would have gone through this mother’s mind that led to this. There were plans involved, enough that she knew what she was doing.”
Neighbors told WTSP the suicide left them confused.
“I’m surprised and shocked. This place is just quiet,” said one neighbor, who asked not to be named. Yes, I think we don’t know the facts, but to hear that happening in your neighborhood is very shocking.”
A statement has been sent to members of the public, confirming the shocking news.
“We are aware of the tragic incident that took place at the Lake Club,” the statement read. “At this time, the matter remains under investigation by the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office. We have no additional information to provide.”
The statement added, “Our hearts go out to the family and all those affected at this incredibly difficult time. As this is an ongoing investigation and out of respect for those involved, we will not be commenting further.”
If you or someone you know is emotionally distressed or thinking about suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
