Police calls Elyria deaths murder-suicide

Community mourns family whose three children attended Elyria Schools. Counselors to be available.

The deaths of five family members, who were found in their residence at 537 Willow Park Road July 29, has been deemed by the Elyria Police Department as a murder-suicide.

Police stated in a news release that all five people appear to have suffered gunshot wounds.

John Nelson, 44, Robin Nelson, 35, and siblings Gavin Nelson, 12, Brianna Nelson, 10, and Liam Nelson, 6, were found dead.

Police say John Nelson is the suspect.

The children were students at Elyria City Schools, according to a Facebook post from the district.

“This devastating news has deeply shaken our staff and school community,” the post read.

A team of counselors and social workers with the district will be made available for students, parents and staff from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Aug. 3, at Elyria High School, 601 Middle Ave., with entrance permitted through the performing arts center.

These counselors are trained in trauma and crisis, according to the post.

Additionally, Mayor Frank Whitfield shared his grief in a news release from the city.

“It is with great sadness that we share this tragic news,” he said.

“This has been a challenging year, to say the least. Never did we imagine having to share the news that we’ve lost one of Elyria’s families in this way.

“Elyria mourns with their family and friends who woke to such tragic news.

“My heart is broken for this family in particular the children. I cannot imagine the pain those close to them must feel and we send our deepest condolences and are here to support them and any of our residents who need our help.”

Resources for those needing counseling are available through the Lorain County Community Action Agency at www.lccaa.net.

The Elyria Police Detective Bureau and Lorain County Coroner’s Office are investigating.