PIMA COUNTY, Ariz. — Authorities in Pima County are investigating a tragic incident after two people were found dead inside a residence in the northwest Tucson area, a case that investigators believe to be an apparent murder-suicide.
According to the Pima County Sheriff’s Department (PCSD), deputies responded to a home near the intersection of Ina and Oldfather roads on Tuesday, July 7, after a concerned resident contacted law enforcement regarding a disturbing note received from a neighboring resident.
Investigators said the note, allegedly written by a male neighbor, indicated that he had killed his wife and intended to take his own life. Alarmed by the contents of the message, the resident immediately notified authorities, prompting deputies to conduct a welfare check at the residence.
When deputies arrived at the home, they attempted to make contact with anyone inside but received no response. After repeated efforts proved unsuccessful, law enforcement officers entered the residence to ensure the safety of the occupants.
Inside the home, deputies discovered two deceased individuals who were later identified as 64-year-old Richard M. Hozjan and 43-year-old Gail Hozjan.
According to the sheriff’s department, Richard Hozjan was found with what investigators described as an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. Gail Hozjan was located elsewhere inside the residence suffering from a gunshot wound. Both individuals were pronounced dead at the scene.
Following an initial examination of the evidence recovered from the residence, investigators stated that the circumstances are consistent with an apparent murder-suicide. Officials emphasized, however, that the investigation remains active and that detectives continue working to establish a complete timeline of the events leading up to the deaths.
Authorities have not released additional information regarding a possible motive, nor have they disclosed whether there had been any prior law enforcement interactions related to the residence. Detectives continue processing evidence, conducting interviews, and reviewing all available information as part of the ongoing investigation.
The incident has left neighbors and members of the surrounding community shocked by the tragic discovery. Situations involving sudden and violent deaths often have a lasting impact on families, friends, first responders, and the communities in which they occur.
As investigators continue their work, officials are urging the public to avoid speculation and allow the investigative process to proceed. Information released by law enforcement will help provide a clearer understanding of the circumstances once the investigation has been completed.
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department has indicated that additional details may be released as the investigation progresses and more information becomes available.
