A north Phoenix community is grappling with the tragic news of a murder-suicide that claimed the lives of a local couple, leaving their two young children parentless. According to AZfamily, authorities confirmed that Celestina Ertebati fatally shot her husband, Sam Ertebati, before turning the gun on herself in their home on January 18th.
The couple, both 42, were found deceased by a relative after their children, who became worried when the parents did not wake up, called. The relative made the discovery in the couple's bedroom. Detectives continue their investigation into the circumstances that preceded the shooting, but without releasing further details at this time.
Information regarding the family's troubled history came to light as the investigation unfolded. Court documents obtained by FOX 10 Phoenix revealed that Sam Ertebati had filed for divorce in October 2023, where he also sought an order of protection against Celestina. According to his petition, she allegedly "attacked him in his sleep" after finding divorce paperwork and had become "out of control" in the months leading up to the incident.
Responding in kind, Celestina filed her own order of protection, while claiming Sam was an alcoholic and verbally abusive in front of their children and took over her iCloud account after finding shelter for months. Struggling with spinal scoliosis, hypothyroid, and depression, she found herself embroiled in a turbulent domestic situation that tragically culminated in violence. Both orders of protection were dismissed, and the divorce case fizzled out, as reported by FOX 10 Phoenix.
The community and the children are now facing the aftermath of a domestic tragedy that perhaps could have been prevented with the proper intervention and support. For those struggling or in crisis, resources are available such as the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which offers free, confidential support 24/7, a crucial service in times of dire need.
