Police Probe, Community Mourns Deaths In Pleasantville Home

PLEASANTVILLE, NY — Pleasantville schools will be open Friday and counseling services will be available for students and staff and families in the small, tight-knit community devastated by the news that four people, including two children, were found dead at home Thursday afternoon.

Officers responded to 57 Romer Ave. at 1:50 p.m. to conduct a welfare check, Pleasantville Police Chief Erik Grutzner said during a press conference Thursday evening. School officials requested the check after the children didn't show up to school.

The causes of death have not yet been determined, Grutzner said.

Village officials said Thursday evening that the department has requested assistance from the Westchester County Police Department. Their Crime Scene and Investigations units responded and were working at the scene.

At this point in the investigation, police officials do not believe there is any ongoing threat to public safety, village officials said. At this time, police are not releasing names of the deceased to ensure that there is adequate time for extended family to be notified.

"On behalf of the Pleasantville community, we extend our deepest condolences to all those effected by this tragedy," they said in a public statement.

Authorities believe the incident was a murder-suicide, ABC 7 reported.

Pleasantville High School, which is located at the end of Romer Avenue, canceled its winter concert Thursday night.

"As you can imagine our hearts are broken at the news of this incredible tragedy," Pleasantville schools Superintendent Mary Fox-Alter told CBS2. "This is a very small community and it impacts all of us in this small village."

She sent this message to the community:

Dear Families,
Our hearts are broken due to the tragic loss of life that occurred in our community today -including the deaths of 2 children. It is important that we support our staff, students and families with a compassionate circle of care. Our schools will be open tomorrow and counseling services will be available for students and families. Building specific information will be sent out later this evening from the principals. Out of respect for members of the extended family who have not been notified, we are not sharing any names.
Please remember that this is an on-going investigation and there will be an increased police presence in the area. I anticipate that there will be media in Pleasantville tomorrow. It is important to communicate with your children that they are under no obligation to speak with the media if they are approached.
All of us in the District are ready to support our community in the days, weeks and months ahead.
MFA.