Motive For Shootings Unknown

Murphys, CA — New information has been released regarding the tragic murder-suicide in Murphys, but it is still unknown what caused Philip Marshall to apparently go over the edge.

The Sheriff’s Office has released information about the weapon that was used by Marshall, 54. Sgt. Chris Hewitt says it was a Glock 9mm semi-automatic handgun. The Sheriff’s Office believes that Marshall’s two children, 17-year-old Alex and 14-year-old Macaila, were both asleep on the couch when their father allegedly shot them in the head. He then apparently took his own life. The family dog was also found dead.

The Sheriff’s Office notes that Marshall’s estranged wife, who is the mother of the children, had been vacationing in Turkey.

The Marshall’s home is in the gated Forest Meadows Subdivision along Sandalwood Drive.

Many churches in Murphys report that they are open today for members of the community to mourn and pray. Bret Harte High School has closed its library this week so that students have a place to gather and mourn. Alex and Macaila were students at the school.

It is noted that Philip Marshall was a former pilot and had authored several books. Some had to do with government conspiracy theories.