MILPITAS, Calif. — A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded this week in Milpitas, where a family of four was found dead in an apartment on McCandless Drive. Authorities believe it was a case of murder-suicide.
On Tuesday, December 17, the Milpitas Police Department arrived at the apartment for a welfare check after family members grew worried about Vinh Nguyen and Betty Pham. The couple hadn’t been heard from in days, and coworkers at the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority reported that they hadn’t shown up for work.
When officers entered the apartment, they discovered a deeply distressing scene. Betty Pham and the couple’s two children were found in their beds with gunshot wounds to their heads. Vinh Nguyen was found nearby with two gunshot wounds and a handgun resting on his right thigh.
Police found the gun used in the incident, which was legally registered to Nguyen. Investigators suspect that he shot his family members before taking his own life.
While the exact reasons behind this tragedy remain unclear, Milpitas Police Department Lieutenant Tyler Jamison shared that Nguyen’s actions might have been influenced by personal struggles. Family members revealed that he and Pham were going through a divorce, and Nguyen had recently purchased a handgun while reportedly dealing with mental health challenges.
The loss has left the community in shock. In a statement, officers said, “We are deeply saddened by this tragedy. The loss of their lives was preventable, and we urge those in need to seek support to prevent incidents like this from happening again.”
This devastating story highlights the importance of mental health awareness and seeking help during difficult times. If you or someone you know is struggling, reaching out for support can save lives.
