Ailing older couple found dead from gunshot wounds Thursday in Marion home

MARION — Police say an older couple, found dead in their Marion home Thursday, had significant health problems and that the gunshots that killed them were compassionate rather than criminal in nature.

The two were identified as Robert Engle, 85, and his wife, Barbara Engle, 80.

Marion Police Chief Mike Kitsmiller said the Engles were found dead in their bed at their home, 1041 Rolling Glen Dr., at about 7 a.m.

Each died of a single gunshot wound. Investigators believe the wounds were either self-inflicted, or one of the Engles took the life of the other before ending their own.

No signs of a forced entry or struggle were found, police said.

The police chief said investigators learned the husband and wife both had significant long-term medical problems — unrelated to COVID-19 — that impacted their quality of life.

Police said it is believed the deaths were more ones of compassion than criminal.

The State Medical Examiner's Office is performing autopsies, police said.

Investigators said no suspects are being sought, and there is no threat to the public.

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