On May 28, 2024, the quiet town of Easton, Wisconsin, was shaken by the tragic death of Valerie J. McCarthy, a 53-year-old Caucasian female. The events of that day unfolded at her home, where she was found deceased from gunshot wounds. Law enforcement was initially called to the residence for a welfare check after a neighbor reported a person sitting in a vehicle on the property overnight who had not moved for several hours.
Upon their arrival, deputies discovered the bodies of both
Valerie J. McCarthy and her 63-year-old partner, Patrick J. Eppolite. Both individuals had sustained fatal gunshot wounds in what investigators have described as a double shooting incident. Further investigation by law enforcement officials led them to conclude that the deaths were the result of a murder-suicide stemming from a domestic dispute.
Authorities have confirmed that Patrick J. Eppolite was the shooter in this tragic event, taking his own life after fatally shooting McCarthy. The Marathon County Sheriff's Office has since concluded its investigation, stating that the incident was related to domestic violence and that there is no ongoing threat to the public. No further details regarding the specifics of the investigation are expected to be released.
Those who knew Valerie remember her as a kind, sweet, and generous person who was a lot of fun to be around. The incident has prompted community discussions about the serious issues of domestic violence and gun safety.
