Robert Abert, Florence Abert Obituary, Death: Authorities in Rochester have identified the two individuals involved in a tragic murder-suicide that occurred early Sunday morning at The Pearl Nursing Center on Portland Avenue. According to the Rochester Police Department, the incident unfolded around 7:30 a.m. when Robert Abert, 70, fatally shot his 94-year-old mother, Florence Abert, before turning the gun on himself.
Florence Abert, a resident at The Pearl since October 31, was in her room at the nursing facility when the events transpired. Police reported that Robert was visiting his mother at the time of the incident. There has been no immediate indication of what led to this act of violence, but authorities continue to investigate the circumstances.
Mark Scalise, the regional director of operations for WeCare Centers, the organization that owns The Pearl Nursing Center, issued a statement expressing condolences and shock at the tragic event. “Our hearts go out to all those affected by this devastating incident,” Scalise stated. The statement emphasized the organization’s commitment to cooperating fully with law enforcement and providing support to residents, staff, and families during this difficult time.
The Pearl Nursing Center, a facility dedicated to providing care for the elderly, has been working with crisis counselors to assist staff and residents impacted by the event. Many in the community are also mourning the loss of Florence Abert, a long-time resident of the area, and grappling with the shock of her son’s actions.
Police have urged anyone with information about the case to come forward. Tips can be provided through 911, directly to the Rochester Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit at (585) 428-7157, or anonymously via Crime Stoppers at (585) 423-9300. Additionally, tips can be sent via email to MajorCrimes@cityofrochester.gov.
As the investigation continues, questions remain about the motivations behind the tragedy and whether there were warning signs leading up to the incident. This case highlights the importance of mental health resources and the need for communities to provide support to individuals facing challenging circumstances.
The Rochester community is left reeling from the incident, with residents expressing sorrow and disbelief. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the complexities of familial relationships and the devastating consequences that can arise when mental health struggles go unaddressed.