With heavy hearts, we mourn the tragic deaths of Christine Wells, 67, and Robert Dehart, 66, both of Pocomoke, Maryland, following a heartbreaking incident Sunday in Somerset County. Maryland State Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the deaths, which authorities have described as an apparent murder-suicide.

Shortly before 7:30 p.m. on September 6, troopers from the Maryland State Police Princess Anne Barrack responded to a residence in the 7500 block of Dividing Creek Road for a welfare check.

When troopers arrived, they discovered Wells deceased inside the residence. Dehart was also found at the home with what police described as an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. Both were pronounced dead at the scene.

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore later officially ruled Wells’ death a homicide. Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding both deaths as they work to determine the sequence of events that occurred inside the residence.

Authorities said Wells and Dehart had previously been in a relationship, and Wells had been serving as Dehart’s caretaker. Investigators are examining that relationship and other circumstances surrounding the residence as part of the ongoing case.

The Maryland State Police Homicide Unit responded to the scene along with Crime Scene Technicians from the department’s Forensic Sciences Division. Investigators collected and processed evidence while working to establish what happened.

The tragedy has left family members, friends and others connected to the Pocomoke community facing a painful loss. As investigators continue their work, those closest to the victims are left to cope with grief while waiting for answers about the circumstances that led to the deaths.

Authorities have not released additional details that would explain the full sequence of events, and the investigation remains active and ongoing.

Anyone who may have information that could assist investigators is encouraged to contact Maryland State Police at 202-953-1903. Authorities have stated that information can be provided confidentially.

During this difficult time, condolences go out to the families, friends and loved ones affected by this tragedy. May they find strength, comfort and support as they navigate the difficult days ahead.