A grim scene unfolded in Montpelier, Vermont, where police say a man killed his parents and then called 911 to confess to the crime. The incident was reported around 11:30 a.m. on Friday at the family home on Gallison Hill Road. The Vermont State Police were dispatched to the residence, where they found two victims deceased and quickly detained 29-year-old Matthew Gomes who resided with them, according to NECN.
New details emerged suggesting a fraught buildup to the double homicide. Before the tragic outcome, Gomes had called the police several times during the early morning hours. Law enforcement, noting his distressed state, referred him to the Washington County Mental Health Services, during which exchange Gomes hung up. WCAX reports that it was subsequent phone call that Gomes described himself as "going crazy" and acknowledged he had "hurt some people", claiming his parents were dead.
Upon arrival at the scene, authorities discovered signs of violence in various rooms, including blood on Gomes and evidence suggesting that bodies had been moved. The victims, identified as Gomes' parents, 77-year-old Jerry Gomes and 60-year-old Mary Gomes, were found near a barn behind the house, with autopsy reports later confirming the cause of death for both as blunt force trauma. The investigation brought to light further disturbing details; near Mary Gomes' body, officers found gasoline.
Gomes, who has been charged with aggravated murder, was taken into custody and is due in court for arraignment. "He was ordered held without bail pending his initial court appearance," according to the account by NECN. The Vermont State Police have reassured the community that they do not believe there is an ongoing threat following the incident. A further update on this case is expected as Gomes is scheduled to appear in Vermont Superior Court.
