New homeowners found the dead body of an 84-year-old man when they moved in, and the 75-year-old former resident is now in custody.
The resident-turned-suspect, Mary Karacas, showed up as homicide detectives investigated the scene, according to ABC 7 News. The Los Angeles Times reported that they had called Karacas requesting she go to the house. She admitted having a relationship with the deceased elderly man, and to shooting him in the midst of an argument. She has since been taken into custody.
Salvatore Orefice, 84, was found in the home on Sunday, partially covered and unresponsive. Police were called out and the man was pronounced dead on scene. Caracas and Orefice had been in a long-term relationship, she told authorities. Neighbors described the couple as happy.
The home had been sold about a month prior, according to the local news report. The son told reporters that the couple had been dating many years, but had financial troubles and lost the home.
The new owners had visited the house that day in order to review the extent to which the house had been cleared from the prior owners.
Caretakers for an elderly neighbor expressed shock to ABC 7 reporters. “She’s been very friendly to everyone,” one said.
Police say they have the murder weapon, according to the news report. The Times reports that the home was purchased for $430,000.
Follow Michelle Moons on Twitter @MichelleDiana
COMMENTS
Please let us know if you're having issues with commenting.