On March 16, 2024, 22-year-old Ethan Blain Gough and his 21-year-old pregnant wife, Eva Linda Berrueto-Gough, were found deceased in their residence on East Port Hueneme Road in Port Hueneme, California. The Port Hueneme Police Department responded to reports of gunshots at approximately 7:19 p.m. and discovered the couple inside the home.
The Ventura County Medical Examiner's Office determined that Eva died from multiple gunshot wounds, classifying her death as a homicide.
Her unborn child also succumbed due to multiple maternal and fetal gunshot wounds, with the death ruled a homicide. Ethan's cause of death was identified as a gunshot wound to the head and neck; after thorough investigation, his death was also classified as a homicide.
Ethan, originally from Parsons, Kansas, graduated from Chanute High School in 2019 and obtained Welding I and II certificates from Neosho County Community College. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 2020 and was stationed in Port Hueneme in 2022, serving as a Second Class Petty Officer with the Navy's Seabees.
Eva, born in Houston, Texas, enlisted in the U.S. Navy in October 2021 and was assigned to the 1st Naval Construction Regiment in Port Hueneme. The couple had been married for a short time and were expecting their first child.
The Port Hueneme Police Department has stated that there are no outstanding persons of interest in this case. The investigation remains active, with authorities urging anyone with information to contact Detective Sergeant Jesus Chavez at 805-986-6615 or via email at [email protected].
In the wake of this tragedy, the community has mourned the loss of the young couple and their unborn child. A GoFundMe campaign was established to assist with funeral expenses and the transportation of their bodies back to their respective hometowns. Vigils and memorial services have been held to honor their memories, reflecting the deep impact of their loss on family, friends, and fellow service members.
As the investigation continues, the community seeks clarity and justice for Ethan, Eva, and their unborn child, while also reflecting on the broader issues of domestic violence and mental health awareness within military and civilian populations.
