Murder-Suicide For Financial Woes

On June 18, 2007, Kevin Morrissey shot his wife (a Japanese American who is a M.D.) and two daughters (cutest girls only age 6 and 8) before shooting himself. The murder-suicide occurred at Tilden Park in the East Bay.

In his type-written suicide note, Morrissey accepted full responsibilities. He said that their medical practice business was failing financially and that other employment opportunities were "unattractive."

When interviewed, everyone they thought the Morrissey's were a happy family. They even had a birthday party for one of the girls on Father's Day, just one day before the killing. His 80-year old neighbor lamented, "A lot of times, people are laughing on the outside and crying on the inside, and they don't let you know the reason why they're crying."

Does "a financial breaking point" warrant destruction of lives? Couldn't they found jobs? Couldn't they have declared bankrupcy? Couldn't they move to an apartment? Couldn't they turn to their church for help?

Apostle Paul said, "I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want." (Philippians 4:10-12)

Copyright © 2005-2007 Winnis Chiang, Parenting ABC