Prosecutors: Vernon couple’s death ruled a murder-suicide

VERNON – Authorities have determined that a northwestern New Jersey woman shot and killed her husband in their home last year before shooting herself.

Sussex County prosecutors issued the ruling in the deaths of 41-year-old Cindy Fortino and her 45-year-old husband, Dean. The Vernon couple was found by police who had gone to the home to check on the couple’s welfare.

Cindy Fortino’s death was ruled a suicide shortly after they were found in November 2014. But the manner of Dean Fortino’s death had remained undetermined.

Prosecutors say both Fortino’s had single gunshot wounds to the head. They say the shootings apparently stemmed from “financial issues concerning Mrs. Fortino,” but declined further comment.

The couple had two young children. It’s not known if they were home when the shootings occurred.