A nurse in Idaho was allegedly fatally shot by her husband in an apparent murder-suicide, leaving their young son without parents.
The Meridian Police Department said in a press release that they learned of the incident when officers were called to do a welfare check at a home on October 20 around 1:48 p.m. after “concerns were raised about the well-being of an individual in the home due to a possible domestic violence incident.”
When officers arrived at the home, they found two deceased individuals. An investigation was launched into the matter, and it was determined that “the husband shot his wife before shooting himself.”
The Ada County Coroner’s Office has since identified the deceased as Violeta Yeager and her husband, Richard Yeager.
The coroner’s office said that Violeta, 37, was pronounced dead at the scene after she sustained multiple gunshot wounds to the chest and abdomen. The coroner ruled her death as a homicide.
Meanwhile, the coroner’s office said that Richard, 39, died by suicide.
Following the tragedy, Violeta’s sister, Kristin Jenson, set up a GoFundMe to help pay for the care of the couple’s son. As of Friday, October 30, nearly $80,000 has been raised out of a $90,000 goal.
“There are simply no words to describe the pain of losing Violet this way,” Jenson wrote. “Our family is grieving an unimaginable loss while trying to navigate the many challenges that come with such a sudden tragedy.
She added that “above all else, our hearts are” with her son, “who deserves to feel safe, loved, and supported as he begins a new chapter of his life.”
The campaign was organized to help “cover Violet’s funeral and memorial expenses, legal fees” related to her son’s custody and future, “relocation costs, and the many unexpected expenses that come with rebuilding a life after such a devastating loss.”
Donations will also go towards the son’s “everyday necessities, clothing, counseling, and long-term well-being as we work to give him the stability and security he needs.”
Jenson said that “no amount of money can undo this tragedy or replace the parents” that the boy has lost. “But with the support of our family, friends, and community, we hope to ease some of the financial burdens during this incredibly difficult time.”
“Thank you for showing our family compassion, kindness, and love when we need it most,” Jenson added.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.
