Prosecutor Knapp Announces Cause and Manner of Deaths in Fatal Shooting in Roxbury Township

Published on September 25, 2014

Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp announces the cause and manner of two deaths on Wills Road in the Landing section of Roxbury Township on September 22, 2014, as well as confirming the identities of the two individuals.

As the result of post-mortem examinations conducted by Morris County Medical ExaminerRonald Suarez, the individuals were positively identified as Cheryl DeSombre, and her husband, Jay DeSombre. In addition, the post-mortem examinations revealed that Cheryl DeSombre's manner of death was listed as homicide caused by gunshot wounds inflicted upon her. Jay DeSombre's manner of death was listed as a suicide caused by a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

On September 22, 2014, at approximately 6:10 p.m., Roxbury Township police officers responded to 527 Wills Road located in the Landing section of Roxbury Township, New Jersey concerning a report of shots fired. Upon their arrival, they located the deceased individuals within the home. The investigation did not reveal any evidence of outside intrusion into the home and there is no cause for concern to the community.

Any inquiries may be directed to First Assistant Prosecutor Thomas Zelante at 973-285-6252 or tzelante@co.morris.nj.us. It is not anticipated that any additional press information will be released today.