Evanston police investigating apparent murder-suicide

By Bryon Glathar, Herald Managing Editor
Posted 10/14/24

EVANSTON — The Evanston Police Department confirmed Wednesday that they are investigating an apparent murder-suicide that took place earlier this month at a home on Stahley Avenue. According to …

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Evanston police investigating apparent murder-suicide

Posted

EVANSTON — The Evanston Police Department confirmed Wednesday that they are investigating an apparent murder-suicide that took place earlier this month at a home on Stahley Avenue. According to a press release, investigators believe Ron Petersen, 65, shot his wife, 62-year-old Denise Petersen, before turning a gun on himself. Both were found dead around 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 1.

“It had been reported that an adult male had been located inside the residence with blood on his face and head,” the press release states. “While enroute, officers were advised the caller was a physical therapist who had come to the home to work with the wife and located the husband in the above-mentioned state.”

Officers swept the home and found Ron Petersen’s body in the dining room area, dead from an apparent gunshot wound. They found Denise Petersen dead — also from an apparent gunshot wound — in the master bedroom.

Officers secured the scene, obtained a search warrant and the EPD Investigations Team processed the scene.

“Detectives conferred with the Uinta County Coroner’s Office regarding the evidence observed at the scene and on the persons of Ron and Denise Petersen,” the press release states. “At this time, the evidence supports a conclusion of Ron Petersen having [shot] Denise Petersen, then taking his own life.”

Officers said there was no note left at the scene. They said the case is still active as they await toxicology results from the Uinta County Coroner’s Office.

If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, you can call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.

If you or someone you know is suffering from caregiver fatigue, you can call the Caregiver Action Network at 855-227-3640 for support.