Dr. Eric Cordes, 63, and his wife, Vicki Cordes, 66, were found fatally shot inside their open garage in Simi Valley, California, on November 30. Police identified the suspected shooter as a white man in his 30s driving a black sedan. Through camera tracking, authorities discovered the vehicle belonged to the couple’s son, Keith Cordes. He was later found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, and investigators believe he used the same weapon to kill his father and stepmother before setting the car on fire.
Dr. Cordes, a respected radiologist who served the community for nearly 30 years, was remembered as a compassionate physician and dedicated colleague. Neighbors expressed shock, describing the couple as well-known and kind members of the community.
Police continue to investigate the circumstances leading to the tragic family murder-suicide.