Family: Person County couple's murder-suicide was an act of love

The sheriff's office said 79-year-old Jerry Duncan shot and killed his wife 79-year-old Gertie Duncan.

Deputies arrived at the Duncan home after Jerry Duncan called 911 and threatened to kill himself. They found him on the back porch with gunshot wounds.

The sheriff said he was still breathing when he was taken to the hospital.

Family told WRAL News that Jerry Duncan died around 2 a.m. Tuesday morning.

The couple's granddaughter, Morgan Mattos, told WRAL News that she did not see this as a crime of hate, but one of love.

"My grandmother has had dementia for nine years, and my grandfather was disabled and has been deathly sick for three years with no diagnosis. I was their granddaughter and caregiver, me and my mom, Sheri Duncan," said Mattos. "My family had to do everything for them. He always wanted to pass with my grandmother, and this was not done out of hate, this was done out of love."

Mattos said in some ways the loss of her grandparents feels like a relief.

"My grandparents loved each other so much, and they are finally out of pain and together again. They’re finally resting pain-free together which is somewhat a relief," said Mattos. "I’ll love them both forever."

Person County deputies are continuing to investigate the incident.