45°
No one apparently heard the shots at CareOne at Wellington on Union Street early Saturday, July 15, investigators said.
The bodies of Michael Zaccario and Patricia Zaccario, both of Wood-Ridge, were found after someone went to the room to check on them, they said.
Police received a 911 call from the facility at 8:51 a.m., then found the couple both dead of gunshot wounds, Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella said.
The prosecutor's Major Crimes Unit and Hackensack police investigated, and the prosecutor on July 18 confirmed the sequence of events.
They were aided by the county sheriff's Bureau of Criminal Identification -- which gathered evidence -- and the county Medical Examiner's Office, which collected the bodies for autopsies.
CareOne at Wellington, opened more than 30 years ago, says it provides sub-acute rehabilitation, specialized clinical care and long-term care. Its website cites "superior clinical programs specializing in wound care, stroke recovery, and dementia care."
The vice-president of a PR firm -- Anna Robinson of the Bliss Group -- issued a statement on the facility's behalf:"We are deeply saddened by the tragedy that took place at our Wellington building today. Our hearts go out to the victim’s family and loved ones.
"We will be providing our staff and residents with the support they need in this difficult time. CareOne is fully cooperating with the local police department and intends to respect the proceedings of the investigation and the privacy of those affected. No further comments will be shared by CareOne at this time."
Click here to follow Daily Voice Edison and receive free news updates.
