John Ezzell Fatally Shoots Wife Christine Ezzell Battling Cancer Before Killing Himself in Apparent Murder-Suicide in Plainfield

Authorities say a Connecticut husband and wife were found dead inside their home after the husband allegedly called 911 to report he planned to shoot his terminally ill spouse and then himself.

According to police, 62-year-old John Ezzell phoned emergency dispatchers around 7 p.m. Monday, stating that his wife, Christine Ezzell, who was reportedly suffering from incurable cancer, was dying and that he intended to end her suffering before taking his own life. He also told the dispatcher he would leave the door unlocked so officers could enter.

When officers arrived at the residence on Kate Downing Road, they found both individuals dead from apparent gunshot wounds. A firearm was recovered at the scene. The couple were pronounced dead shortly after officers entered the home.

Both bodies were transported to the medical examiner’s office for autopsies to confirm the exact causes and manner of death.

Local reports, including coverage by Hartford Courant, indicated there was a significant law-enforcement presence in the neighborhood while investigators processed the scene. The roadway near the residence was temporarily closed but later reopened.

Officials with the Plainfield Police Department have not released further details as the investigation continues.