In the quiet community of Hastings, Michigan, a devastating scene unfolded in early August of 2018, forever altering the lives of a local family. On August 5th, police were called to a home on Lavender Drive after a concerned friend was unable to reach the residents. Inside, they made a grim discovery, finding the bodies of 77-year-old Judith Wilson, her 79-year-old husband Robert, and their 54-year-old son, Richard Garrett Wilson.
All three had sustained fatal gunshot wounds in what investigators would soon determine was a tragic case of domestic violence.
The investigation conducted by the Hastings Police Department concluded that Richard Wilson was the perpetrator of the horrific act. It is believed that he shot and killed both of his parents before turning the gun on himself in a double-murder and suicide. Authorities assured the public that there was no ongoing threat to the community, as the violence was contained within the family home. While a definitive motive is often difficult to ascertain in such tragedies, it was reported that Richard had recently lost his job, a circumstance that had reportedly led to tension within the household.
As the sole suspect in the deaths of his parents, there were no arrests made in connection with the deaths of Judith and Robert Wilson. The case was closed following the determination that Richard acted alone. The incident left the Hastings community in shock and mourning the loss of a couple described as loving and faithful members of their church.
