Father Kills His Children & Chaperone Before Turning Gun On Himself Inside Church: Report

The 39-year-old was reportedly scheduled for a supervised visit with his children—9, 10, & 13.

BYErika Marie
Larry W. Smith / Stringer / Getty Images

California's capital is the focal point of reports today after a tragedy took place at a Sacramento church. Although identities are being kept concealed, for the time being, authorities told reporters that around 5:00 p.m. on Monday (February 28), an employee at the Church of Sacramento heard shots ring out. They immediately ran from the location and called the police. 

When authorities arrived at the scene, they found five people dead in the main sanctuary. 


It has been reported that a 39-year-old father is believed to have killed his three children—ages nine, 10, and 13—before turning the gun on himself. The identification of the fifth victim remains unknown at the time of this publication. Investigators have purposefully withheld that information, but it was stated that the last victim was familiar with the father as well as the children, and was at the location as a chaperone for their supervised visit together.

Police have reportedly stated that the children's mother was estranged from the father and had a restraining order against him. California's Governor Gavin Newsome tweeted a statement about the murder-suicide.

"Another senseless act of gun violence in America - this time in our backyard. In a church with kids inside. Absolutely devastating," he wrote. "Our hearts go out to the victims, their families and their communities. We are working closely with local law enforcement."



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About The Author
Erika Marie is a seasoned journalist, editor, and ghostwriter who works predominantly in the fields of music, spirituality, mental health advocacy, and social activism. The Los Angeles editor, storyteller, and activist has been involved in the behind-the-scenes workings of the entertainment industry for nearly two decades. E.M. attempts to write stories that are compelling while remaining informative and respectful. She's an advocate of lyrical witticism & the power of the pen. Favorites: Motown, New Jack Swing, '90s R&B, Hip Hop, Indie Rock, & Punk; Funk, Soul, Harlem Renaissance Jazz greats, and artists who innovate, not simply replicate.