A community in both Pennsylvania and Florida is mourning after authorities confirmed a tragic murder-suicide involving well-known business leader Gary R. Fleegle and his wife, Carissa R. Fleegle, inside their Winter Garden, Florida home. The heartbreaking incident has sent shockwaves through colleagues, family, neighbors, and organizations that worked closely with the couple.
Tragic Weekend Incident in Winter Garden, Florida
According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were called to a residence located on 16569 Broadwater Avenue in the Waterleigh community last weekend after reports of gunfire. When officers entered the home, they discovered 55-year-old Gary Fleegle and 52-year-old Carissa Fleegle deceased. Investigators believe the incident was the result of a domestic altercation that escalated, leading Gary to fatally shoot his wife before turning the gun on himself.
Authorities have not released additional details surrounding what may have preceded the tragedy, but detectives continue to investigate all elements of this devastating case.
Originally From Johnstown, Pennsylvania
The Fleegles were originally from Johnstown, Pennsylvania, before relocating to Florida in recent years. Their ties in Pennsylvania remained strong — friends and community members in Johnstown remember them as well-respected individuals who continually contributed to their local roots. Records indicate that the couple formerly resided at 123 Henry Street, a home familiar to many in the neighborhood who knew them for years.
Gary Fleegle’s Professional Legacy
Professionally, Gary Fleegle was widely recognized in the defense and manufacturing field. He served as President and Owner of the National Center for Defense Manufacturing and Machining (NCDMM), headquartered in Johnstown. Under his leadership, the organization played an influential national role — supporting innovation, precision manufacturing, and advanced technologies critical to government, defense contractors, and the industrial sector.
Former colleagues have expressed deep sadness at the news, remembering Gary as a forward-thinking leader who valued collaboration, advancement, and long-term strategic development. Carissa, many said, was a warm and supportive partner, deeply admired for her kindness and encouragement of those around her.
Domestic Violence Awareness Reminder
The tragedy has renewed difficult but necessary conversations surrounding domestic conflicts and mental health struggles — issues often unseen until it is too late. Community members in both states are encouraging individuals to look for warning signs, reach out for help, and understand that silent internal battles can escalate quickly without support.
Counseling and crisis intervention services have been made available to those impacted by the loss. Anyone experiencing domestic violence or emotional distress is urged to reach out for confidential assistance:
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: call or text 988 for immediate support 24/7
This tragic event serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the importance of checking in on one another, breaking the silence around domestic turmoil, and prioritizing mental and emotional health before conflict reaches irreversible levels.
The loss of Gary and Carissa Fleegle leaves family, friends, former coworkers, and two communities grieving deeply — and searching for answers in the aftermath of an unimaginable tragedy.