Helen Kathryn Masten, 89, was found dead of an apparent gunshot wound inside the Kenton home she shared with her husband Harold “Jim” Masten on October 19, 2017. A relative using a key entered the locked Cooper Street residence about 11:00 a.m. to check on the couple and discovered both Helen and Jim suffering from gunshot injuries; both were pronounced dead at the scene.

Delaware State Police investigated and determined the incident was a murder-suicide: Harold shot and killed Helen, then died by suicide. Investigators found no evidence of an outside intruder, and the locked condition of the home plus the location of the bodies and recovered evidence supported the conclusion that no other person participated. Reports noted the couple had been coping with Helen’s declining health and related emotional and financial pressures, but there was no documented note or prior plan that fully explained the killings.

Helen and Jim had been married 71 years and left behind five children, grandchildren and other descendants. If anyone knew the Mastens or has information about their final days, please share what is known.