PALM COAST, FL — A peaceful Palm Coast community was left stunned Wednesday evening after an elderly couple was found dead inside their home in what investigators with the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) are calling an apparent murder-suicide.
Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Pinelynn Lane shortly after 6:00 p.m. for a welfare check requested by a concerned family member who had been unable to reach the couple for over a day. Upon arrival, deputies were assisted by a hospice nurse in gaining access to the home.
Inside, authorities discovered 85-year-old Julio Alonso and his wife, 74-year-old Martha Alonso, deceased in their bedroom. Preliminary evidence suggests that Julio Alonso fatally shot his wife before taking his own life with a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
A neighbor told detectives the couple had last been seen on Tuesday, mentioning they were planning a hospital visit. Investigators are still working to determine what might have led to the tragic events that unfolded inside the home.
“While we are still in the early stages of this investigation, all evidence so far indicates this was a tragic murder-suicide,” said Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly. “Losing a loved one is always painful, but to lose both parents in such circumstances is unimaginable. Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of the Alonsos during this incredibly difficult time.”
Both bodies were transported to the Medical Examiner’s Office for autopsy. The case remains under active investigation by the Major Case and Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) units of the FCSO, as detectives continue gathering information and conducting interviews.
Sheriff Staly also emphasized the importance of mental health awareness and community support. “If you are struggling — whether it’s with emotional pain, illness, or hopelessness — please reach out for help,” he urged.
Residents in Flagler County can contact Flagler Cares at 386-319-9483 for local assistance, or reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 or visiting 988lifeline.org.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a sobering reminder of the unseen struggles many face behind closed doors — and the importance of checking in on family, friends, and neighbors before tragedy strikes.