After multiple reports identifying those involved in an apparent murder-suicide on Sunday, Dec. 3 in Orchards, the Clark County Sheriff’s Office released the names of those deceased in the investigation.
The suspect is believed to be Stuart K. Rouse, 64, and the victims are believed to be:
Cristina S. Rouse, 62
Ronald E. Rouse, 57
Kristina T. Rouse, 33
Melissa A. Rouse, 19
The Clark County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit began its investigation into the apparent murder-suicide after someone asked for a welfare check at the residence. Law enforcement found five people deceased at the residence in the 11500 block of Northeast 92nd Street in the Orchards neighborhood of Vancouver at around 1 p.m..
Deputies believe the suspected shooter was Stuart K. Rouse. The victims appear to be the suspect’s wife, their two adult daughters and the suspect’s adult brother.
A reporting party had requested CCSO check on the family after receiving a text message from a family member stating they had harmed others at the residence, a release by CCSO stated.
“The text message from the suspected shooter was sent to the reporting party more than four hours before that time but was not discovered by the reporting party until later in the day,” an updated news release stated. “The Sheriff’s Office responded to the welfare check call once dispatch had been called.”
As previously reported, CCSO deputies arrived on scene and were unable to contact anyone at the residence.
“Based on the information about harm to others, possible firearm involvement and being unable to reach any of the family members in the home, patrol requested the assistance of the Southwest Washington Regional SWAT team,” the initial information stated.
At that time, deputies deployed an unmanned aircraft system into the home and found several people who appeared to be deceased. SWAT operators and Tactical Emergency Medical Support medics entered the residence and confirmed that five people were deceased inside.
Clark County Sheriff, John Horch, provided a statement regarding the incident.
“Domestic violence has resulted in the loss of numerous innocent lives,” Clark County Sheriff John Horch said in a press release. “If you or someone you know is in possible danger, please don’t stay silent. There are law enforcement and domestic violence advocates available to assist. Please Call 911 immediately to report incidents of domestic violence. Listed below are a few resources to assist those in need. Domestic violence affects our entire community, and we must continue the battle against those who seek to commit acts of violence against the innocent.”
Resources:
YWCA Clark County
ywcaclarkcounty.org/
3609 Main Street
Vancouver, WA 98663
General: 360-696-0167
Hotline: 360-695-0501
National Women’s Coalition Against Violence & Exploitation
nwcave.org / (360) 852-8019
