POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. – Town of Poughkeepsie police have identified the two individuals found dead inside a residence on Wednesday in what investigators are treating as a domestic-related murder-suicide.
The victims have been identified as Peter Lopez, 59, and his wife, Deborah “Debbie” Mawhinney-Lopez, 54.
The Discovery and Investigation
Police were dispatched to the home at 21 Homer Place at approximately 12:11 p.m. on Wednesday, December 17.
Upon arrival, officers found the couple, both in their 50s, deceased. Authorities later confirmed both had sustained apparent gunshot wounds.
Investigators have indicated that the incident is being treated as a domestic-related case in which Peter Lopez shot and killed his wife before dying by suicide. Police emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing and that there is no threat to the public.
A Deep Community Loss
The couple had been married for 34 years. Deborah Lopez, formerly worked for the Arlington Central School District and was originally from Howard Beach.
Their deaths have sent waves of shock and sorrow through the local community, where friends and neighbors knew them well.
Police have not released additional details and noted that law enforcement activity may continue in the area as the investigation is finalized.