A husband and a wife were found dead at their home in Kingston on Tuesday. The Kingston Eastern Police Division described the incident as a possible murder-suicide, but the investigation remains ongoing.
The deceased were identified as a 53-year-old paralegal clerk, Morvine Thompson Palmer, and her 49-year-old spouse, Mason Peat Palmer, who both live in Harbour View. Reports suggest that Peat Palmer may have stabbed his wife before taking his own life.
The bodies of the married couple were found after concerned relatives reportedly attempted to contact the pair but were unable to reach them, prompting them to alert the authorities.
When officers went to the couple’s residence along Dorado Drive, they found them lying just outside the house. According to Irie FM, Thompson Palmer was discovered on her back with a gash to her neck, while Peat Palmer was lying face down beside her, holding several raw electrical wires tightly in his hands.
The pair were later confirmed dead at the Kingston Public Hospital. Their death, according to the report, follows an alleged dispute the pair were having at their home. Reports say neighbours recalled hearing them arguing on Sunday afternoon.
Reports further indicate that the suspected murder-suicide occurred sometime between 3:30 p.m. on Sunday and 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday. Thompson Palmer had plans to travel abroad on Tuesday and had her hair done the night before.
Neighbours described the couple as private but well-known in the community. An elderly resident recalled that Thompson Palmer would always interact with people in the area, being a JP. Mason, who was also seen on Monday, was more reserved and quieter, according to the resident.
Residents also shared that the couple were going through a divorce after a 20-year marriage. One person said they once lived comfortably together, and when that changed, they stopped living like a married couple.
Friends remembered Thompson Palmer as a deacon at her church who always encouraged peace. She was also a respected realtor, known for helping many in the area buy and sell homes. Meanwhile, Peat Palmer worked in the construction industry.
Authorities have not yet released details on what may have triggered the confrontation. Post-mortem examinations are expected to be conducted to determine the precise causes of death.
