SUMMERSVILLE, W.Va. — A quiet neighborhood in Summersville was left in shock Thursday evening after three people were found dead inside a home in what authorities believe to be a double murder-suicide.
According to the Summersville Police Department, officers were dispatched around 5 p.m. to a residence along Ashley Lane in the Tara Estates subdivision. Police Chief Brad Reed said a 911 caller reported that three individuals inside the home were unconscious, unresponsive, and suffering from severe head trauma. The call prompted an immediate and urgent response from local law enforcement.
Officers with the Summersville Police Department, along with deputies from the Nicholas County Sheriff’s Office, arrived at the scene shortly after the call. Upon entering the residence, authorities discovered all three individuals deceased. Investigators quickly secured the area as they began processing the scene and gathering evidence to determine what had occurred inside the home.
The victims have been identified as Dawn Morrow; Nancy Lindwedel; and Douglas Morrow. Authorities said preliminary findings indicate the incident was isolated and that there is no ongoing threat to the public. The tragic discovery has left neighbors stunned, as Tara Estates is generally considered a quiet and close-knit community.
Based on early investigative findings, police believe Douglas Morrow allegedly shot his wife, Dawn Morrow, and his mother-in-law, Nancy Lindwedel, before turning the gun on himself. Officials emphasized that the information remains preliminary and is subject to change as detectives continue to review evidence and conduct interviews. No additional suspects are being sought at this time.
The bodies have been transported to the West Virginia State Medical Examiner’s Office for autopsies to determine the official causes of death. Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing, and they are asking anyone with additional information to contact the Summersville Police Department. As the community mourns, officials continue working to piece together the circumstances that led to the devastating incident.
