WINDSOR – An elderly couple found dead in their home Thursday were the victims of a murder-suicide.

Bertie County Sheriff John Holley said 87-year-old Frank Cowan fatally shot his wife, Dorothy, 86, and then turned the gun on himself. Sheriff Holley said family members indicated both were having health issues.

“This is a tragic situation,” Sheriff Holley said. “We have talked with the family and they seem to be very good people. It’s difficult when things like this happen and the family is certainly in our thoughts.”

Sheriff Holley said a call was placed to 9-1-1 Dispatch at approximately 7 a.m. Thursday from a family member.

“Everything leads us to this being a murder-suicide,” he said. “Our investigation will continue to confirm that is the case.”