New Details, IDs Released in Essex Untimely Deaths Investigation

ESSEX, CT — Connecticut State Police Wednesday afternoon released new details concerning the discovery of two deceased people found inside an Essex house on Tuesday afternoon. State Police said at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday members of Troop F responded to 31 Prospect Street to conduct a well-being check on the residents.

When State Police entered the found two people who were dead. Detectives from Central District Major Crime responded to the scene and assumed the investigation.

"Initial findings indicate that this incident is a murder/suicide," State Police said. "There is no threat to the public."

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner conducted an examination and determined that the deceased man, Joseph Reifer, 73, died as a result of a gunshot wound and his death was a result of a suicide, State Police said. The woman, Susan Barron, 72, also died as a result of a gunshot wound and her death is labeled as a homicide, State Police said.

The case remains under investigation.