Jeffrey M. Wright, Anita Lam-Wright Obituary, Death – Authorities in Orangetown have confirmed the identities of the two individuals found deceased in an apparent murder-suicide in Nyack, describing them as a married couple in their 50s. According to a statement released by the Orangetown Police Department, the victims were identified as Jeffrey M. Wright, 52, and Anita Lam-Wright, 55. Their bodies were discovered inside their home on North Midland Avenue on the morning of Saturday, November 1.
The incident began when a concerned family member contacted law enforcement, reporting that there had been a prior domestic situation involving the couple. In response, officers from the Rockland County REACT Team, a specialized unit trained to handle high-risk calls, were dispatched to the residence to conduct a welfare check.
Upon arriving at the scene, officers made multiple attempts to reach anyone inside the home. Despite repeated calls and announcements, there was no response from the occupants. Given the nature of the report and the lack of communication, the REACT Team proceeded to enter the home to ensure the safety of anyone who might be inside.
Once inside, officers discovered the bodies of Wright and Lam-Wright. Both had sustained injuries from gunfire. A firearm was recovered at the scene. Following an initial assessment and collection of evidence, police determined that the incident appeared to be a case of domestic violence that ended in a murder-suicide.
Orangetown Police Captain Michael Shannon stated in a news release on Monday that the early findings indicated Wright had fatally injured his wife before turning the weapon on himself. “Based on the injuries and evidence at the scene, it appears that Mr. Wright used a shotgun that was found in the home. After the first act, he went to another part of the residence and took his own life with the same firearm,” Shannon explained.
Authorities emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing as detectives work to piece together the sequence of events that led to the tragedy. Forensic experts are reviewing evidence from the scene, including ballistic analysis, autopsy results, and any potential communications between the couple or with family members in the days leading up to the incident.
The Rockland County District Attorney’s Office and the Medical Examiner’s Office are both assisting Orangetown Police in the investigation. Autopsies will confirm the official causes of death and help establish a timeline for when the events took place.
Neighbors described the couple as long-time residents who generally kept to themselves but were polite and friendly when seen in the neighborhood. The news of their deaths has left the small Nyack community shocked and saddened.
Local officials have encouraged anyone struggling with relationship stress or mental health challenges to seek professional help. They noted that tragedies like this often highlight the importance of early intervention, counseling, and community awareness around domestic conflict and emotional well-being.
Police Captain Shannon expressed condolences on behalf of the department, saying, “Our thoughts are with the families and friends affected by this heartbreaking situation. We are committed to ensuring a full and transparent investigation into what happened.”
Authorities are urging anyone who might have additional information related to the case — including details about the couple’s recent activities or possible warning signs — to contact the Orangetown Police Department Detective Bureau at 845-359-2121. Calls can be kept confidential upon request.
The department reiterated its commitment to working with community organizations to help prevent similar tragedies in the future by promoting mental health awareness and providing resources for families in crisis.
As of now, police have not released further details about the timeline of events or whether any prior reports of domestic conflict had been made before this incident. The case remains an active investigation.
