In the quiet town of Kaplan, Louisiana, a long and cherished love story came to a tragic end in June of 2015. Benita Clostio, a 94-year-old woman, was found deceased in her home on Wilson Street, alongside her husband of nearly 78 years, 98-year-old Harry Clostio. The couple, who had shared a lifetime of memories, died together in what law enforcement would later describe as a heartbreaking murder-suicide.
The Kaplan Police Department responded to a call from the Clostio residence on the
afternoon of Saturday, June 6, 2015. Upon their arrival, they made the grim discovery of the elderly couple's bodies. An investigation into their deaths was promptly launched. Following a thorough examination of the scene and the completion of autopsies, the authorities concluded that Benita Clostio was the victim of a homicide, and her husband had subsequently taken his own life.
The news of the Clostios' deaths sent a wave of shock and sadness through the Kaplan community. They were remembered as a loving couple who were deeply devoted to each other throughout their many years of marriage. Their joint obituary painted a picture of a life built on love and family. It recounted their marriage at a young age and the joy they found in raising their two sons. In their later years, they found pleasure in gardening and spending precious time with their family and friends.
Given the nature of the incident, with the sole suspect also being deceased, the investigation did not lead to any arrests or criminal proceedings. The case was closed with the determination of a murder-suicide, leaving a community to mourn the tragic loss of a couple who had been a fixture in their town for decades. A graveside service was held for Harry and Benita Clostio at Kaplan Cemetery, where they were laid to rest together.
