Mercedes S. "Bunny" Witterman, a 69-year-old retired nurse from Sylmar, Los Angeles, California, tragically passed away on January 16, 2017. Known for her loving and generous nature, Mercedes was a wheelchair user who enjoyed crafting. Her death was the result of a gunshot wound, inflicted by her husband, Rubin Witterman, in what authorities determined to be a murder-suicide. Rubin, who was 84 years old at the time, was also found deceased at the scene. He had called 911 to report the incident before taking his own life.
The couple was discovered in their home on Gavina Avenue after a SWAT team responded to the 911 call. Rubin Witterman, who had been Mercedes' primary caretaker, reportedly found it increasingly difficult to manage her care. This strain is believed to have contributed to the tragic outcome. The Los Angeles Police Department's Valley Bureau detectives investigated the case, confirming the murder-suicide scenario. No further arrests or suspects were involved, as Rubin Witterman was the sole perpetrator.
The incident highlighted the challenges faced by elderly caregivers and the potential for such situations to escalate into violence. Mercedes' death was a profound loss to her family and community, who remembered her for her dedication to nursing and her passion for crafting. The case did not lead to any additional litigation or law cases, as the primary suspect was deceased. The community mourned the loss of both Mercedes and Rubin, reflecting on the tragic circumstances that led to their deaths.
