In the quiet community of Newbury Park, a concerned family member grew worried after being unable to reach an elderly couple for some time. This concern prompted a call to the Ventura County Sheriff's Communications Center on the morning of September 21, 2026, requesting a wellness check at a residence on Lucas Court. Responding deputies from the Thousand Oaks Police Department arrived at the home around 11:11 a.m. to check on the occupants.
After gaining entry to the house, the officers made a grim discovery, locating a deceased man and woman inside.
The victims were identified as 86-year-old Kazia Berlach Tukalska and her 89-year-old husband, Aleksander Tukalski. Detectives from the Sheriff's Major Crimes Bureau and the Thousand Oaks Police Department were called to the scene to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths. A search warrant was obtained for the property, allowing for a thorough examination of the residence. During the investigation of the scene, a firearm was recovered inside the home. An investigator from the Ventura County Medical Examiner's Office also responded to assist with the scene investigation.
Authorities have stated that they believe the deaths are an isolated incident and that there is no ongoing threat to the public. However, the official cause and manner of death for both Kazia and Aleksander have not yet been released and will be determined by the Ventura County Medical Examiner's Office. As the investigation remains ongoing, officials have not disclosed how the firearm was involved or provided further details about the circumstances leading to the couple's deaths. To date, no arrests have been made, and no suspects have been named, as law enforcement continues to piece together the final moments of the married couple's lives.
