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John A. Howell, Anna B. Howell and their adopted son Richard L. Howell of Hyde Park, approximately 15 miles from Peach Springs, Arizona were found shot to death along a section of Highway 66 about 40 miles northeast of Kingsman, Ariz.

The Mohave County Sheriff Office has determined the case to be a double homicide and a suicide.

An autopsy from the Mohave County Coroner found that all three family members died of gunshot wounds from a 9 mm handgun, and detectives have determined that Anna was the driver, her husband John was in the front seat, and their son Richard was in the back seat of an Isuzu Trooper. The handgun was found at Richard's side.

Mohave Sheriff's Office representative Trisha Carter said investigators determined Richard shot his parents then walked approximately 100 yards into the desert and shot himself. She added that the motive for the violence is unknown, however the investigation is continuing.

Richard was a 2006 graduate of the Elkton Pigeon Bay Port School District.

A former friend of Richard's, who did not wish to be identified, was shocked to learn about what happened. "He was (always such) a great kid with an energetic smile and a flare that preceded him."