Mom, son found dead after Amherst Township fire; possible murder-suicide

LORAIN COUNTY, Ohio (WOIO) - A mother and her nine-year-old son were found dead after a house fire in Amherst Township early Wednesday and Lorain County Sheriff deputies said preliminary findings “suggest that this was a murder-suicide.”

Firefighters arrived at the home in the 300 block of Broadway Street around 7:47 a.m. on Nov. 20 after the woman’s alarm company notified authorities.

According to Lorain County Sheriff detectives, after the very small bedroom fire was extinguished, crews found the bodies.

“When they went in and extinguished the a very small blaze, they discovered two bodies inside one of the bedrooms,” says Captain Robert Vansant.

It appears the mother may have shot her child before setting the house on fire and then shooting herself, stated Lorain County Sheriff Captain Robert Vansant.

“We found some evidence at the scene that would give us that indication as well and that is all we are going to go in to,” says Captain Vansant.

Captain Vansant said they are currently going through all the evidence they recovered at the house.

“This is a tragic situation for everyone involved, including the school. It’s hard to see a child in this situation,” said Captain Vansant.

Nobody else is believed to have lived in the home and the child’s father lives out of state. Captain Vansant said the father has been notified.

The Amherst Exempted Village School District confirmed the little boy was a third grade student at Powers Elementary School.

“It is with heavy hearts that we share the tragic news of the death of one of our beloved elementary students. A few moments ago, the Lorain County Sheriff’s Department reported that there has been an apparent murder/suicide involving a Powers Elementary School student. While the name of the child has not been released, we are working closely with the Sheriff’s Department as they investigate. As more information becomes available, we will continue to keep you informed. Additionally, counseling and support services will be provided for our students, staff, and the broader community. During this incredibly difficult time, we ask that you keep the family and our entire community in your thoughts and prayers.”