A tragic incident occurred in Port St. Lucie, Florida, where a 50-year-old man and woman were found dead in a domestic-related murder-suicide. The Port St. Lucie Police Department identified the victim as 50-year-old Elizabeth Ortega and the shooter as 50-year-old Ralph Varela Sr.

Investigation Details

The investigation revealed that Varela and Ortega had been in a long-term cohabitation domestic relationship and resided together with their adult son. They were in the process of separating. On the night of the incident, officers responded to the 2000 block of Southeast Oxmoor Terrace after receiving multiple 911 calls reporting possible gunshots and a domestic disturbance.

Officers found a woman suffering from a gunshot wound, who was airlifted to a local hospital and pronounced deceased. A man was also found deceased from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. Investigators learned that the adult son had left the residence to pick up dinner from a local restaurant, and there was no known argument or disturbance inside the home before his departure.

After the son left, investigators believe Varela used a semi-automatic rifle and began shooting Ortega inside the residence. Ortega attempted to flee, but Varela continued firing. Responding officers located Ortega with multiple gunshot wounds, and she was later pronounced deceased. Varela was found inside the home, where he appeared to have died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Police Response and Investigation

The Port St. Lucie Police Department is still investigating the incident and processing evidence. The agency extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones affected by this tragic incident. The house remains an active crime scene, and drivers are urged to avoid the area to allow first responders and investigators to safely conduct their work.

Original reporting: WPBF (Treasure Coast / Hearst) — read the source article.