RANCHO CORDOVA, CA. (THECOUNT) — Authorities are investigating a fatal shooting at a Rancho Cordova home where a man, a woman, and two children were found dead Tuesday morning. The home involved in the incident is owned by David Edward Vallerga Jr., 58, and Lindsey Peralta Vallerga, 48, according to public records cited by the Sacramento Bee. The family resided at 5420 Mill Water Circle.
Sheriff’s deputies responded to reports of gunfire at the residence and discovered the four victims inside. Detectives believe the incident was a murder-suicide. The identities of the children, reported to be a 13-year-old son and an 11-year-old daughter, have not been formally confirmed by authorities, though neighbors and public records indicate they were the Vallergas’ children.
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According to Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Sgt. Ed Igoe, the initial call came around 8:30 a.m., when a neighbor reported hearing gunshots. A second call was received shortly thereafter from a person claiming to have fired a gun and stating they had placed booby traps in the home. Law enforcement investigated but found no evidence of explosives or traps on the property.
Deputies used specialized equipment to breach the rear fence and sliding glass door, then deployed a drone to survey the residence. Sgt. Igoe reported that the drone located the male victim unresponsive, after which deputies entered the home and found the other three victims, all deceased from gunshot wounds. Authorities have confirmed there are no additional suspects and the investigation is ongoing.
David Edward Vallerga Jr. was a franchise owner of Elk Grove-based business, Gradepower Learning. Photographs from public social media accounts are consistent with the victims found in the home, according to officials. The sheriff’s office said the victims’ families have been notified, and detectives are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shootings.
Neighbors described the area as a quiet residential neighborhood. “It’s quiet for the most part. You’ll see people walking their dogs, running. For the most part, we don’t have any loud parties going on here… So to see this, it’s wild,” said neighbor Cameron Daughtery.
The law enforcement chaplain and sheriff’s personnel were on-site throughout the day to provide support. Authorities emphasized that no further threat exists to the public at this time and that all necessary notifications and investigative steps are being taken.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or thoughts of suicide, help is available. Call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or use their chat service at 988lifeline.org for confidential support 24/7.
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