Tragic Murder-Suicide in Waite Park: Two Young Children Escape as Parents Found Dead in Horrific Shooting
WAITE PARK, MINNESOTA — April 16, 2025
A quiet Waite Park neighborhood was rocked by unspeakable violence this week as police confirmed a murder-suicide that left two adults dead and two young children fleeing for their lives. The harrowing incident unfolded in a home near the intersection of 7th Street South and 2nd Avenue South, and authorities are still working to understand what led to the tragedy.
At approximately 2:40 p.m., Waite Park Police were responding to a nearby incident when they heard gunshots ring out from a home just across the street. What they witnessed next was deeply unsettling—two young children, just 8 and 5 years old, were seen running from the residence in a panic. Officers immediately secured the children and entered the home to investigate.
Inside, they discovered the lifeless body of Janet Vercruysse, 36, who had suffered multiple gunshot wounds. Near her was Demico Elyea-Goss, 29, who appeared to have died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Police believe Elyea-Goss shot Vercruysse before turning the weapon on himself. Several firearms were recovered at the scene, though investigators have not yet confirmed how many were used in the shootings.
A Scene of Chaos and Confusion
According to Waite Park Police Chief David Bentrud, officers were stunned not only by the sudden eruption of violence but also by the trauma endured by the children. “This was a horrifying scene,” said Chief Bentrud. “Two young children witnessed or were at least present during the loss of their parents’ lives. Our first priority was ensuring their safety and connecting them with support resources.”
The children, reportedly unharmed physically, are now in the care of extended family members and are receiving trauma counseling. Authorities have not confirmed their exact relationship to the deceased, but it is believed that Vercruysse and Elyea-Goss were either in a domestic partnership or formerly involved.
Investigators Search for Answers
Despite finding multiple firearms in the home, investigators are still struggling to determine why the murder-suicide occurred. No history of domestic violence between Vercruysse and Elyea-Goss has been publicly confirmed at this time, though police are reviewing past 911 calls and speaking with friends and family to piece together the couple’s recent history.
“There are no easy answers in cases like this,” said Stearns County Sheriff Steve Soyka, whose office is assisting in the investigation. “Our hearts go out to the family, the children, and the community trying to come to terms with this act of senseless violence.”
Autopsies are currently underway to confirm the causes of death. Toxicology reports and forensic examinations of the recovered firearms will likely offer more insights in the coming weeks.
Community in Mourning
Neighbors have expressed shock and sadness over the tragedy, describing the couple as quiet and generally private. “They kept to themselves, but we’d see the kids playing outside now and then,” said one nearby resident. “It’s heartbreaking to think of what those kids went through. I can’t even imagine.”
Local organizations and mental health services are offering grief counseling for those impacted, and the Waite Park Police Department has opened a direct line for residents seeking support or information related to the case.
Final Moments Still a Mystery
As investigators continue their work, the motive behind the violence remains unknown. No suicide note has been discovered, and police are urging anyone who might have information about the couple’s state of mind, possible disputes, or circumstances leading up to the shooting to come forward.
“This tragedy leaves us with far more questions than answers,” said Chief Bentrud. “But our priority now is to support the children and the families devastated by this loss.”
Remembering the Victims
Friends and family have begun expressing their sorrow on social media, sharing memories of Janet Vercruysse’s warmth and dedication as a mother. Little is known publicly about Elyea-Goss at this time, though investigators hope to gather more from those who knew him.
A memorial fund may be established in the coming days to assist the surviving children, and a candlelight vigil is reportedly being organized by community members to honor the lives lost and offer a space for collective mourning.
Conclusion
The horror that unfolded in Waite Park this week will not be forgotten. As the investigation into this devastating murder-suicide continues, the community grieves alongside the two young children now left without parents. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Waite Park Police Department.