Husband, wife found dead in murder-suicide in Independence Twp, police say

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Police in Independence Township are investigating after a man and a woman were found dead in what police believe was a murder-suicide, they say. 

Police were called to a home in the 9000 block of Syracuse Avenue Thursday afternoon after the woman's sister said had attempted to contact her sister but did not get a response. When she went to the home, investigators say she could see her brother-in-law on the floor covered in blood.

Police say when they went into the home they saw a man and woman, identified as John and Diane Jones, were dead, lying on the kitchen floor. Police say they both suffered gunshot wounds, and that a gun was under the man's arm. No one else was in the home. 

The sister had told police she hadn't heard from her sister since Memorial Day, but police haven't said exactly when they believe the deaths happened. An autopsy has been scheduled.

Police say the man was 69 years old and the woman 65.

Independence Township is in northern Oakland County, about 45 miles northwest of Detroit. 

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If you or a loved one is feeling distressed, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The crisis center provides free and confidential emotional support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255, or text 741-741.