Elderly man and woman found dead in apparent murder-suicide in north Stockton

An elderly man and woman were found dead at a north Stockton home after an apparent murder-suicide, according to the Stockton Police Department.

Officers responded at about 7:01 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 4 to the 4600 block of Winding River Circle after the Stockton Fire Department reported a suspicious death.

A watch commander's report said a gas leak was initially reported at the home.

Officers entered the home and found an 83-year-old woman and a 76-year-old man dead, according to police. Their bodies were found lying next to each other.

Police said the woman was shot and the man appeared to have a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The San Joaquin County Medical Examiner's Office has identified the couple as Patricia McDonald and John McDonald Jr.

A firearm was recovered at the scene, according to police.

The incident brings the city's homicide count to 40 so far in 2024. At this time last year, there were 38 homicides, according to Officer David Scott, a spokesperson for the Stockton Police Department.

The homicide investigation is ongoing.

If you or someone you know needs mental health resources and support, please call, text, or chat with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or visit 988lifeline.org for 24/7 access to free and confidential services.

Record reporter Hannah Workman covers news in Stockton and San Joaquin County. She can be reached at hworkman@recordnet.com or on Twitter @byhannahworkman. Support local news, subscribe to The Stockton Record at https://www.recordnet.com/subscribenow .

This article originally appeared on The Record: Elderly man and woman found dead in apparent murder-suicide in north Stockton