Yucca Valley couple found dead in apparent joint-suicide

YUCCA VALLEY, Calif. (KESQ) — The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department says a couple was found dead after deputies conducted a wellness check Friday afternoon.

Morongo Basin deputies say they responded to the 7000 block of Aster Avenue in reference to a welfare check.

A deputy reportedly observed the residents through a window, motionless. After making entry, two seniors were located, John Wayne Doughty and Lari Doughty, both 80, who were dead from apparent gunshot wounds. A firearm was found in the man's hand. 

The Sheriff’s Specialized Investigations Division – Homicide Detail responded and assumed the investigation. Detectives say they determined that John shot Lari before killing himself, in an apparent joint suicide pact.  

No information was released about how the deputies arrived at that conclusion.

Anyone with information regarding this incident was urged to contact the Homicide Detail at 909-890-4904.