Couple Found Deceased in New Hanover County Home; Authorities Investigating Apparent Murder-Suicide
Authorities are investigating the deaths of Stephen and Tracey Willetts, a couple who had recently celebrated 40 years together, after they were found deceased in their New Hanover County, North Carolina home. Detectives believe the incident was a murder-suicide.

Portland, OR, August 4, 2026 —
Authorities in New Hanover County, North Carolina, are investigating the deaths of a couple found deceased in their home. Stephen and Tracey Willetts, who had recently marked 40 years together, were discovered in their residence. The New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office is treating the incident as a murder-suicide.
Details surrounding the circumstances of their deaths have not been fully disclosed by investigators. The Sheriff’s Office confirmed that detectives are actively working on the case. No further information regarding the timeline of events or the specific cause of death has been released at this time.
The couple’s passing comes shortly after they had celebrated a significant milestone in their relationship, having been together for four decades. The New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office has not provided additional information concerning the investigation.
Story summarized from the original created by Chris Pugh on www.oregonlive.com, see more information here.