In the quiet city of Independence, Missouri, a tragedy unfolded in the fall of 2015, leaving a community in shock and a family grappling with a devastating loss. Barbara J. Olsen, a 66-year-old woman, was found deceased in her home on South Ash Avenue on the evening of Wednesday, September 30, 2015. Alongside her was her husband, 66-year-old Phillip A.
Hurlburt, who was also deceased.
The grim discovery was made by Independence police officers who had been dispatched to the couple's residence following a 911 call about a possible domestic disturbance. Upon entering the home, they found the bodies of Barbara and Phillip. Investigators at the scene indicated that a firearm had been used and that they were treating the case as an apparent murder-suicide.
The news of the violent end to the lives of the long-time residents sent ripples through their neighborhood and beyond. Phillip Hurlburt was a veteran who had served in Vietnam. In his civilian life, he was a member of the Boilermakers Union and later the Sheet Metal Workers Union until his retirement.
While authorities investigated the circumstances leading to the tragic event, the initial assessment pointed towards a murder-suicide. There were no reports of any other suspects being sought in connection with the deaths. The investigation did not release information on who was the perpetrator. The case left behind questions and a sense of sorrow for a couple whose lives came to a sudden and violent end.
