Authorities Provide Update on Triple Fatality Investigation in Roxbury

Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, and Roxbury Police Chief Dean Adone announce an investigation is underway into the deaths of three Roxbury residents in their home on Justine Place.

On March 7 at approximately 10 a.m., Roxbury Police responded to a residence in the Succasunna section for a welfare check. One of the deceased’s friends requested the check after they could not reach them.

Upon arrival, patrol entered the residence and discovered a husband, wife, and juvenile son all visibly deceased from what appeared to be gunshot wounds. A subsequent investigation suggests they died during the early-morning hours.

The deceased are Peter Ventricelli, 57, Kellie Ventricelli, 58, and Anthony Ventricelli, 15.

At this time, law enforcement believes Peter Ventricelli shot and killed his wife, Kellie, and his son, Anthony. The motive and circumstances of these heinous acts are under investigation. The investigation will involve scene analysis, electronic device review, and interviews.

Peter Ventricelli works as a private contractor. Further information on the two victims will not be disclosed.

Prosecutor Carroll said, “This is a tragic murder-suicide brought on by domestic violence. It is a heartbreaking loss for the Ventricelli family. Neighbors, schoolmates, friends, and the Roxbury community as a whole are mourning this shocking and senseless loss of life. We ask that citizens exercise discretion and compassion while discussing the situation on social media.”

New Jersey’s 1991 Prevention of Domestic Violence Act recognizes that domestic violence is a serious crime against society, that victims of domestic violence come from all social and economic backgrounds and ethnic groups, and that violent behavior against victims of domestic violence will not be excused or tolerated. Domestic violence includes crimes such as homicide, assault, and any crime involving risk of death or serious bodily injury, as committed by people who are, or were, in a family or romantic relationship or have ever lived together with the victim(s).

There is no danger to the public. Further information will be made available as the investigation progresses.