The Astoria Police Department has named the couple involved in a tragic incident on Wednesday, which they believe was a murder-suicide at an apartment complex. Scott Mathew, 57, shot his wife, Denise Lynn Mathew, 51, before taking his own life, according to police.
A maintenance worker found the couple deceased in their apartment at the Bayshore Apartments on West Marine Drive. Astoria Police Chief Stacy Kelly mentioned earlier this week that the couple had two children. Denise Lynn Mathew originally came from Marion, Oregon.
Two Dead in Murder-Suicide at Picayune Hospital Parking Lot
A tragic incident occurred in Picayune on Thursday when a mother and daughter were found dead in a murder-suicide. Helena Malone, 61, shot her mother, Helen Plaisance, 79, inside a car in the parking lot of Highland Community Hospital around 2:53 p.m. After the shooting, Malone called the police.
What Did the Police Find?
Malone shot herself before authorities arrived. Both women were taken to the hospital but sadly did not survive their injuries. Fortunately, no one else was harmed in the incident. Police confirmed that all shots were fired inside the vehicle, and the firearm used in the incident was secured.
The Picayune Police Department is asking anyone with information about this case to come forward. You can contact Detective Madyson Hanna at 503-325-4411 or via email at mhanna@astoria.or.us.
Need Help?
If you or someone you know is in crisis, please reach out for help by calling or texting 988, the National Suicide Prevention Hotline, which is available 24/7.