PALM COAST, FL — A quiet Palm Coast neighborhood was shaken Wednesday evening after deputies with the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) discovered an elderly couple dead inside their home on Pinelynn Lane in what authorities believe to be a murder-suicide.
Deputies were called to the residence around 6:00 p.m. after a concerned relative requested a welfare check, saying they had been unable to reach the couple by phone or text for more than a day. When deputies arrived, a hospice nurse helped provide entry into the home.
Inside, investigators found Julio Alonso, 85, and Martha Alonso, 74, deceased in their bedroom. Preliminary findings indicate that Julio shot his wife before taking his own life with a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
A neighbor told detectives they last saw the couple on Tuesday when they mentioned leaving for a hospital visit. It remains unclear what may have led to the tragic incident.
“While we are still in the early stages of this investigation, the evidence located inside the home and witness interviews strongly indicate that this is a tragic murder-suicide,” said Sheriff Rick Staly. “Losing a parent is never easy, but losing both parents to what appears to be a murder-suicide is unimaginable. Our condolences and prayers go out to this couple’s family and friends during this extremely difficult time. May God rest their souls.”
The bodies have been transported to the medical examiner’s office, and the case remains under investigation by the Major Case and CSI units of the FCSO. Authorities continue to gather information to better understand the circumstances that led to the deaths.
Sheriff Staly also took the opportunity to remind residents that help is available for anyone struggling with health, emotional, or mental challenges. “If you are feeling overwhelmed or hopeless, please reach out. You are not alone,” he said.
Residents in Flagler County can contact Flagler Cares at 386-319-9483 for local support or reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling 988 or visiting 988lifeline.org.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a reminder of the silent struggles many face behind closed doors — and the importance of checking in on loved ones and seeking help when it’s needed most.