Garner Couple Identified in Apparent Murder-Suicide at Their Home
Authorities in Johnston County, North Carolina, have identified a husband and wife as the victims of an apparent murder-suicide that occurred at their home in Garner on Saturday, March 23, 2025. The Johnston County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the tragic incident after deputies responded to a disturbing 911 call from the residence.
Disturbing 911 Call Leads Deputies to Fatal Scene
At approximately 6:44 p.m., Johnston County 911 Communications received a call from a home on Chaney Drive. The caller remained silent before abruptly disconnecting the line. When dispatchers attempted to return the call, a man answered and denied calling 911. However, in the background, a woman’s terrified voice was heard pleading, “Why do you want to kill me?” and calling for help.
Realizing the urgency of the situation, deputies were immediately dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, officers heard a gunshot ring out from inside the home.
When dispatchers tried to re-establish contact with the man inside, he answered the phone and stated that he would come outside to speak with law enforcement—but he never did.
Standoff Leads to Tragic Discovery
As law enforcement officers lost contact with the man, they established a perimeter, treating the incident as a potential hostage or barricade situation. Crisis negotiators attempted to communicate with the occupants, but there was no response.
Concerned for the safety of those inside, deputies obtained a search warrant and forcibly entered the home. Once inside, they discovered the bodies of a man and a woman, both suffering from fatal gunshot wounds.
Victims Identified
The victims were identified as 53-year-old Christopher Pugh and 54-year-old Teresa Adams-Pugh. The couple was married and resided at the Chaney Drive home where the tragedy unfolded.
Authorities have ruled the case as a murder-suicide, with Christopher Pugh believed to be the shooter.
Ongoing Investigation
As of Monday afternoon, the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office has not released additional details regarding the circumstances leading up to the incident. Authorities continue to investigate what may have caused the violent event.
This devastating case adds to growing concerns over domestic violence and mental health awareness, highlighting the importance of recognizing warning signs and seeking help before tragedies occur.
If you or someone you know is in distress, help is available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.
