DeKalb County authorities are investigating an apparent murder-suicide in the Grove Oak community.

Sheriff Nick Welden said deputies on a welfare check Thursday night made entry into a residence after making several attempts to contact the homeowners.

Inside, they found a man and woman dead from apparent gunshot wounds. 

After collecting evidence from the scene, it is believed the man shot the woman before taking his own life.

WHNT is reporting that the two were Beverly Vitale, 84, and her son Scott Vitale, 60.

Welden thanked the 9th Judicial District Attorney’s Office, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency and the Geraldine Fire Dept. for assisting in the investigation.

“We may never understand the why of this senseless tragedy, but I do know the family and friends need all your prayers in the months to come,” Welden said.