AMERICAN FORK, Utah – A tragic incident unfolded as a Utah couple was discovered dead at their home in what appears to be a murder-suicide. Olin Johnson, 57, and Kerilyn Johnson, 52, were the victims, as reported by local news outlets Fox 13, and NBC-affiliate KSL. The pair was found deceased on June 20 when authorities responded to a call from a distraught relative who made the shocking discovery.
According to the American Fork Police Department, preliminary investigations suggest that the deaths were the result of an apparent murder-suicide. However, the final determination will be made after further testing from the Utah Office of the Medical Examiner, reports ABC 4. Law enforcement officials believe that Olin Johnson shot his wife twice before ending his own life. Notably, there were no signs of a struggle at the scene.
A statement from the police, obtained by ABC 4, expressed condolences to the family and friends of Olin and Kerilyn. The family has requested privacy as they cope with their devastating loss.
In the aftermath of this tragedy, a close friend who had known the couple for over three decades established a GoFundMe page to support their six children. The page description states that the sudden passing of Olin and Kerilyn has left many devastated, and the aim is to ease the financial burden of funeral expenses and unexpected costs that the children may face in the weeks and months ahead.
Kerilyn Johnson was a former Brigham Young University student, where she was employed at the time of her death, according to her Facebook page. The couple had been married since April 24, 1992, as indicated on the same page. A community vigil was held on June 23 to show support for the children left behind. Attendees expressed their desire for the family to feel the love and encouragement from the community during this difficult time, according to Fox 13.
In light of this distressing incident, it is crucial to remember resources are available for individuals experiencing domestic violence. The National Domestic Violence Hotline can be reached at 1-800-799-7233, or by visiting thehotline.org.