Tragedy struck in the early hours of Saturday, December 30 in New City, New York, as the Clarkstown Police Department found a deceased family of four during a wellness check. The deceased were identified as Watson Morgan, 49, Ornela Morgan, 43, and their two sons, aged 10 and 12. Watson Morgan worked as a Sergeant with the Bronxville, New York Police Department and was the subject of the wellness check when he failed to show up for his Friday night shift.
All four family members were found with gunshot wounds and were pronounced dead at the scene. It is believed that Watson killed his wife and children before turning the gun on himself. A handgun was recovered at the scene and authorities have ruled out any threat to the public.
Local officials expressed their condolences for the devastating murder-suicide, with County Executive Ed Day sending prayers and deepest condolences to the family, friends, and fellow officers of the victims. Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann emphasized the need to help the community begin the healing process, pledging to assist those grappling with the tragic incident.
In response to the tragedy, the Town of Clarkstown organized a candlelight vigil at Germonds Park to honor the Morgan family, with grief counselors providing support to the community. As details about the funeral arrangements remained uncertain, it was reported that the funeral may not be held locally due to the many surviving members of Mrs. Morgan’s family residing in Massachusetts. At the time of writing, nothing had been finalized.
The community continues to mourn the loss of the Morgan family as they come to terms with the harrowing events that unfolded on that tragic day.