Double Murder In Delco Not Random Act Of Violence, State Police Say

CHESTER HEIGHTS, PA — Pennsylvania State Police said they believe the killing of a senior couple in Delaware County was not random.

Rita and Richard Zajko, 69 and 72, respectively, were found dead in their home at 18 Highland Drive in Chester Heights Borough on Monday, Jan. 2.

Their deaths have been ruled homicide, Pennsylvania State Police said.

On Tuesday, state police issued an update on the investigation into their deaths.

"The Criminal Investigation Unit has executed numerous search warrants, conducted dozens of interviews, and have obtained new evidence regarding this homicide," state police said. "Based off this information it is believed at this time not to be a random act of violence."

Pennsylvania State Police found their bodies at 5:14 p.m. Monday after being called to their home for a wellness check.

Authorities have not released details on the Zajko's deaths, such as the manner of death, possible suspects, or possible motives.

Anyone with information about the Zajko's deaths is asked to call the Pennsylvania State Police, Troop K, Media at 484-840-1000 or anonymously contact the Pennsylvania Crime Stoppers Toll Free at 1-800-4PA-8477.

All callers to Pennsylvania Crime Stoppers remain anonymous and could be eligible for a cash reward for information that leads to an arrest, the solving of a crime/cold case or the location of a wanted person/fugitive or missing person.

Anonymous tips can also be submitted online here.