In the winter of 2015, the quiet community of Brooklyn, Connecticut, was disturbed by a tragic event that unfolded within the historic Tiffany mill complex on South Main Street. On January 30th, 50-year-old Wayne R. Harbold Jr., a White / Caucasian male, was found deceased in the apartment he shared with a roommate. The discovery was made after neighbors reported hearing gunshots, followed by the sight of smoke billowing from the residence. First responders faced a hazardous scene as the fire inside the apartment caused ammunition to explode.
Investigators determined that Harbold died from multiple gunshot wounds in what was ultimately ruled a murder-suicide. His body was located in the living room of the apartment. The perpetrator was identified as his 40-year-old roommate, Harley Roberge, who was found in the kitchen with a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Authorities also concluded that the fire had been intentionally set. In the aftermath of the blaze, which caused significant damage to the building, sixteen residents were displaced from their homes. With the case determined to be a murder-suicide, authorities concluded their investigation, stating that there were no other suspects involved.
Wayne R. Harbold Jr. had been a resident of Vineland, New Jersey, for most of his life before relocating to Connecticut. He was an employee of Putnam Plastics Company in Dayville, where he had worked for over a decade. Those who knew him remembered his varied interests, which included a love for motorcycles, playing the guitar, and jeeps. He also had a creative side, with a passion for poetry, drawing, and tattooing. Described as deeply religious, he had formed cherished friendships during his time in Connecticut.
