Updated

Updated · Fox News · Aug 3

North Carolina Couple Found Shot Dead in Suspected Murder-Suicide After 40th Anniversary

Updated

Updated · Fox News · Aug 3

North Carolina Couple Found Shot Dead in Suspected Murder-Suicide After 40th Anniversary

Q: How did a life-saving smartwatch feature inadvertently expose a tragic murder-suicide just a day after a couple's 40th anniversary?

A smartwatch’s automatic fall-detection feature appears to have triggered the emergency response that uncovered the couple’s deaths just one day after their 40th anniversary. According to the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, one of Stephen or Tracey Willetts’ smartwatches detected what was likely a hard fall and, when the alert was not canceled, automatically called 911. That is consistent with how devices such as the Apple Watch work: they sound an alarm, wait for a response, and if the wearer remains immobile, place an emergency call on the user’s behalf. EMS was sent to the Wilmington-area home early Thursday morning because of that automated alert. When responders got no answer at the door, they requested deputies. Investigators said deputies entered the residence and found Stephen Larnell Willetts, 65, and Tracey Parker Willetts dead from gunshot wounds. Evidence collected at the scene led investigators to believe Tracey Willetts shot her husband before taking her own life. Authorities have described the case as an apparent murder-suicide, though the investigation remains active. In effect, a feature designed to summon help after a medical emergency did exactly that, but instead of leading responders to an accident victim, it led them to a fatal crime scene that otherwise might not have been discovered as quickly.

3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Aug 3

Stephen Larnell Willetts, 65, and Tracey Parker Willetts were found shot dead Thursday inside their Wilmington, North Carolina, home, with investigators saying the wife likely killed her husband before taking her own life.
A smartwatch triggered the emergency response after detecting a fall and automatically calling 911 when its alarm was not canceled, according to local reports.
The New Hanover County Sheriff's Office said the case remains under active investigation as detectives continue reviewing evidence from the scene.
The deaths came a day after the couple appeared to celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary and shocked the Wrightsville Beach paddleboarding community where they were well known.