RUSSELL COUNTY, KY — A quiet neighborhood in the Jabez community is reeling after an elderly couple was found dead in their home Saturday night in what authorities believe may be a murder-suicide. The victims have been identified as Thomas Sawyer, 78, and Dorothy Sawyer, 80.
According to Russell County Coroner Mark Coots, a concerned neighbor who had not seen or heard from the couple for some time entered the Sawyers’ home on Cherokee Trail and discovered their bodies around 8:45 p.m. Emergency crews responded quickly, but both Thomas and Dorothy were pronounced dead at the scene from apparent gunshot wounds.
Preliminary findings suggest that one spouse may have shot the other before turning the gun on themselves. While investigators have not yet confirmed the sequence of events, the early evidence supports the theory of a murder-suicide. No signs of forced entry or third-party involvement have been found, and officials say there is no reason to suspect foul play beyond the couple themselves.
The bodies have been transported to the State Medical Examiner’s Office in Frankfort for full autopsies. These examinations, along with toxicology reports and ballistics testing, will help confirm the cause and manner of death. Investigators are also working to determine if a note or other explanation was left behind.
The Kentucky State Police are leading the investigation with support from the Russell County Coroner’s Office. While the motive remains unclear, officials are interviewing neighbors, friends, and family members who may have had contact with the couple in recent days. The Sawyers were described by locals as quiet and kind long-time residents who kept to themselves.
The tragedy has left the small community of Jabez in shock. As neighbors mourn the loss, authorities are reminding the public about the importance of mental health support. Situations like this may be influenced by complex issues such as illness, caregiving stress, or emotional struggles. Anyone experiencing a mental health crisis is encouraged to reach out for help by calling 988, the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7.