Mary Stack, a 57-year-old woman from Elmhurst, IL, was found dead on August 31, 2014, along with her family members in what was later determined to be a murder-suicide. The tragic incident involved her father, Francis Stack, 82, who fatally shot his wife, Joan Stack, also 82, and their two adult children, Mary Stack and her brother, Francis Stack Jr., 48, before taking his own life. All four family members were discovered with gunshot wounds to the head during a well-being check conducted by Elmhurst police.
Mary Stack and her brother, Francis Jr., were both severely disabled and required constant care. Their parents, Francis and Joan, had been their primary caregivers throughout their lives. The family had a history of dealing with significant health challenges, with Joan Stack suffering from severe arthritis and terminal cancer, which left her bedridden. The burden of caregiving and the deteriorating health of the family members likely contributed to the tragic decision made by Francis Stack.
The investigation revealed that Francis Stack had informed a friend of his intentions to kill his family and then himself, prompting the well-being check by the police. Upon arrival, officers found the bodies and a handgun at the scene. The DuPage County coroner's office confirmed that all four individuals had died from gunshot wounds to the head. Neighbors and acquaintances described Francis Stack as a loving and devoted father who was overwhelmed by the immense caregiving responsibilities and the declining health of his family.
There were no arrests or suspects in this case, as it was conclusively determined to be a murder-suicide. The community of Elmhurst was deeply affected by the incident, and the family received an outpouring of support from neighbors, caretakers, and the local community. The tragic deaths of Mary Stack and her family members highlighted the immense pressures faced by caregivers and the devastating impact of chronic illness and disability on families.
