Andrea Alarcon: New Jersey woman fatally shoots husband and 2 daughters before killing herself
Warning: This article contains a recollection of crime and can be triggering to some, readers’ discretion advised.
UNION, NEW JERSEY: A profound sense of grief envelops Union as the community grapples with the devastating news of a family of four succumbing to a tragic murder-suicide.
On Wednesday morning, January 17, the Union County prosecutor's office reported the horrifying discovery of the lifeless bodies of 42-year-old Andrea Alarcon, 51-year-old Ruben Alarcon, and their two juvenile daughters, inside their home on Lincrest Terrace.
Andrea Alarcon takes drastic step
The prosecutor's office, respecting the privacy of the grieving family, did not release the names or ages of the two girls. The investigation revealed that Andrea, in an unimaginable act, shot and killed her husband and children before turning the gun on herself.
Union County Prosecutor William Daniel conveyed the profound sense of loss, acknowledging the magnitude of the tragedy. "In tragedies of this magnitude, there are no words that can heal, nor explanations that can serve to make sense of them to the public. Our thoughts go out to the family and friends of these victims and to the Union community as a whole in the wake of this horrible event," Union County Prosecutor William Daniel said in a statement, per CBS.
As the community grapples with the shock, some neighbors revealed they hadn't seen anyone at the Alarcon home for days. One neighbor expressed surprise, unaware that children resided in the house. The motive behind this heart-wrenching incident remains unclear.
Community mourns devastating tragedy
Union Police Director Christopher Donnelly echoed the sentiments, recognizing the depth of the tragedy that has shaken the community to its core.
"This is a deeply tragic event that has shaken our community to its core. Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones of the victims," said Director Donnelly.
"We understand that this may be a difficult time for many people, and we encourage anyone who is struggling to reach out for help. Resources are available, and you don't have to go through this alone."