In a deeply disturbing discovery that has shaken a quiet Queens neighbourhood, police have uncovered the bodies of an elderly couple concealed within the basement of their New York residence.
The grim find was made on Tuesday afternoon at the couple's home on 84th Road in the Briarwood area, launching a major investigation by the NYPD's 107th Precinct and detectives from Queens South.
Law enforcement sources have revealed the victims were identified as 82-year-old Leonard and 83-year-old Donna Berger, longtime residents of the property where they met their tragic end.
A Mysterious Timeline
Authorities are working to establish a precise timeline of events, but preliminary investigations suggest the couple may have been deceased for several days before their discovery. The exact cause of death remains undetermined pending complete autopsies by the Medical Examiner's office.
Police were initially alerted to the scene after concerned relatives reported being unable to contact the elderly pair. What officers discovered upon entering the home has left even seasoned investigators deeply troubled.
Community in Shock
Neighbours expressed profound shock and sadness upon learning of the tragedy unfolding in their midst. The Berger couple were described as quiet, private people who had lived in the area for decades.
"They kept to themselves mostly, but were always pleasant when you saw them," one neighbour recounted. "This is just devastating to think about."
Forensic teams spent hours processing the scene, carefully documenting evidence that might shed light on the circumstances leading to this tragic outcome. The investigation continues as authorities work to determine whether foul play was involved.
