Neighbors believed father in WVC murder-suicide was ‘such a nice guy’

WEST VALLEY CITY — Police believe a West Valley City father shot his wife and four children before shooting himself.  Investigators said there were no prior records of domestic violence involving this family. The Utah Domestic Violence Coalition, however, says this is not unusual.

German DeCasa, a neighbor of the family, said he often spoke with the father and observed his interactions with the children. He recalled the father’s kind demeanor, particularly with his kids.

“He’s so sweet with the kids,” DeCasa said. “So I’m thinking, wow, this person is so nice.”

DeCasa, who knows most of the people on the street, described the man as soft-spoken and private. According to Kimmi Wolf with the Utah Domestic Violence Coalition, it is common for those closest to individuals in abusive relationships to be unaware of the situation. Wolf also emphasizes that violence can escalate rapidly.

“I do think many people think of domestic violence in a sequential way,” Wolf said.

This perspective can mean that victims and those around them might not recognize the signs of abuse until it’s too late. For DeCasa, the tragedy is deeply puzzling, as he mourns the loss of his friend and tries to understand what could have driven the mild-mannered man to commit such an act.

“He’s such a nice guy,” DeCasa said.

DeCasa never imagined something so tragic could occur, especially at the hands of this father.

“So sad, so sad,” he said.

The Utah Domestic Violence Coalition said it aims to provide education to prevent such tragedies. Their services are available 24/7 for those in need.

Case updates

One of the man’s sons survived, and clings to life in the hospital as police continue to investigate.

“He was shot through the head and he is in a condition where we are unable to speak to him,” said West Valley City police spokeswoman Roxeanne Vainuku. “He’s not communicative at all at this point.”

Police found the family inside the home on Tuesday afternoon, after a welfare check was made on Monday, and officers could not legally enter the home, Vainuku said. Police believe the shooting occurred sometime over the weekend, but no neighbors reported hearing gunshots.

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Domestic violence resources

If you or someone you know is going through abuse, help is available.

• The Utah Domestic Violence Coalition operates a confidential statewide, 24-hour domestic abuse hotline at 1-800-897-LINK (5465).
• Resources are also available online at the Utah Domestic Violence Coalition website.
• YWCA Women in Jeopardy program: 801-537-8600
• Utah’s statewide child abuse and neglect hotline: 1-855-323-DCFS (3237)

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233