Elderly Couple Found Dead in their Home

May 20, 2010

***UPDATE***

The identities of the two people involved in this incident have been identified as 77-year-old Anne Ward and her husband 77-year-old James Ward of West Hills.

Los Angeles: Topanga Area Detectives are investigating what appears to be a case of murder-suicide that occurred early Thursday morning.

On May 20, 2010, at around 9 a.m., Officers from Topanga Area Police Station received a radio call of “unknown trouble,” in the 7200 block of Cirrus Way.  A 911 call had been generated from a residence there, but the 911 operator was unable to determine the exact nature of the emergency.  Once at scene Officers attempted to make contact with someone inside, but there was no response.  Due to the exigent circumstances the Officers entered the home through an open rear door and found a man and woman, believed to be husband and wife, both 77-years of age, suffering from single gunshot wounds to the head.  

Los Angeles City Fire Department Paramedics responded and pronounced both victims dead at scene.  Their identities are being withheld until family members can be notified.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call Topanga Area Detectives, Detective Brian Pogue at 818-756-3362.  During non-business hours or weekends, calls may be directed to 877-LAPD-24-7.  Anyone wishing to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (800)-222-8477).  Tipsters may also contact Crime Stoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most key pads) using a cell phone.  All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.”  Tipsters can also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on “web tips” and follow the prompts.