A Statewide Case-control Study of Spousal Homicide-suicide in Older Persons

This case-control study identified factors that differentiate older married men who commit homicide-suicide from those who die by suicide. A total of 20 spousal homicide-suicides involving persons age 55 years & older occurring between January 1998-December 1999 were ascertained from Florida medical examiner records. 2 suicide controls were matched to each perpetrator. Homicide-suicide perpetrators displayed significantly more domestic violence or were caregivers for their wives in contrast to suicide victims who had health problems & were receiving care from their spouses. Both groups had reported depressed mood. There were no differences in sociodemographic factors. (40 refs.)