Washington County couple dies in murder-suicide

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP, Pa. — A man shot and killed his wife before taking his own life Wednesday at their Washington County home, the coroner said.

Edward and Lorraine Smith, both 53, were found dead from gunshot wounds in a home on Church Road in Jefferson Township, near Burgettstown.

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Investigators said Edward Smith did not show up for work on Wednesday, which was out of charater for him. His coworkers became concerned and called his elderly father, who discovered the victims around 8:15 a.m.

Troopers said they believe that the husband and wife were both dealing with serious medical issues, which might have played a role in the shootings. Officials interviewed several family members who mentioned the heath issues.

Friends said the pair were high school sweethearts who met when they were teenagers.

The investigation is ongoing.

Cox Media Group