Zaven Shahverdi Murder suicide Porter Ranch, CA

Couple Found Dead in Suspected Murder-Suicide at Porter Ranch Home

Authorities are investigating the deaths of a husband and wife who were found shot inside their home in Porter Ranch in what police believe may be a murder-suicide.

Officers from the Los Angeles Police Department’s Devonshire Division responded to a residence in the 20700 block of Como Lane at approximately 9:20 p.m. Monday after a neighbor reported possible gunshot victims. According to reports, the couple’s son discovered his parents inside the home and went to a nearby neighbor for help, prompting the emergency call to authorities.

The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner later identified the victims as 58-year-old Zaven Shahverdi and his wife, 55-year-old Melina Avanosian. Both individuals were pronounced dead at the scene. Officials confirmed that each sustained a single gunshot wound to the head.

During the investigation, detectives recovered a handgun from inside the residence. Authorities stated that they do not believe there are any outstanding suspects and are currently treating the case as a domestic-related murder-suicide.

Investigators have not released information regarding a possible motive, and officials have not yet determined which of the two individuals may have fired the shots. The official manner of death for both victims remains under review by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office as the investigation continues.