A gruesome discovery in Santee left a neighborhood in shock as two elderly individuals were found dead in their home, the San Diego County Sheriff's Department confirmed. The bodies were found on May 26, after a call was received around 11:25 A.M., directing law enforcement to the residence on the 300 block of Lantern Crest Way.
Upon arrival, deputies sadly pronounced 82-year-old David Soulner and his 79-year-old wife, Claire Soulner, dead from gunshot wounds, as confirmed in a statement obtained by the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department. In a turn that appeared to demystify the situation somewhat, the preliminary autopsy results suggested that Claire's death was a homicide while David's was a suicide. David has been identified as the only suspect in the harrowing case.
Details surrounding the motive and full circumstances are still elusive as investigators continue to unravel the threads of this disturbing matter. The Sheriff's Homicide Unit is actively investigating the incident and has not indicated there are any other suspects involved, according to information shared by Hoodline.
Authorities call on the public to step forward with any information clarifying this tragic event. "Both subjects appeared to have head trauma," said Lieutenant Michael Krugh of the Homicide Unit, as quoted by Hoodline. The department reiterates there is no threat to the community and urges anyone with knowledge to call the Homicide Unit at (858) 285-6330 or after hours at (858) 565-5200. An anonymous tip line is also open through Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477 for those who prefer to share their information quietly.
As the close-knit community of Santee wrestles with the aftermath of this violent event, the echo of unanswered questions looms large. The homicide unit has vowed to continue diligently investigating, signaling their commitment to bringing closure to this troubling case. The public is encouraged to monitor official releases from the San Diego Sheriff's Department for continued updates.
