Anthony Todt, of Colchester, reportedly confessed to killing his family in Celebration, Florida, after being taken into custody by Osceola Sheriff’s deputies.
Deputies were called to a residence in Celebration on Monday, Jan. 13, to the home that the Todt family was leasing. A man - now identified as Todt - was seen taken away in handcuffs, and officials reported that four bodies were found in the Florida residence.
The Medical Examiner later identified the deaths as a homicide, but specific details have not been released by officials.
According to reports, Todt admitted to killing his wife and children, and he has been charged with multiple counts of homicide and animal cruelty.
Officials identified Todt’s victims as his wife, 42-year-old Megan Todt, and their three children Alex Todt, 13, Tyler Todt, 11, and Zoe Todt, 4. Todt also reportedly killed the family’s dog.
When he was taken into custody, Todt was reportedly taken to an area hospital after he allegedly took some pills and threatened to harm himself. He’s allegedly cooperating with investigators.
Todt and his wife had previously owned Family Physical Therapy in Colchester, which was under investigation by the state’s Attorney General. The family also had a Kissimmee condominium for more than a decade. They’ve shared time between Connecticut and Florida.
"The Office of the (Connecticut) Attorney General can confirm we have an open False Claims Act investigation into Anthony Todt. Beyond that, we are unable to comment or provide further details," a spokeswoman for the Connecticut Attorney General’s Office said.
"The news reports out of Celebration, Florida regarding a Colchester family are shocking and heartbreaking,” Colchester First Selectman Mary Bylone posted on social media. “While there is much we do not know at this time, I know that the thoughts and prayers of our entire community are with the relatives and friends of the family involved.
“We can't always make sense of moments like this but we can support each other. Colchester proves every day the power of community and the importance of being kind. I know we will stand together as we help each other to work through this moment.”
In a statement, Connecticut State Police said that law enforcement agencies in Florida are leading the investigation.
“To date, the Connecticut State Police has not received any request from local authorities in the Florida area to assist in this investigation. We are confident in their ability to conduct a thorough investigation. We ask that the public exercise patience while the Osceola County Sheriff's Department releases information as these types of investigation tend to be complex."
The Colchester Public School District also issued a statement on the Todt family.
"All of us at Colchester Public Schools are deeply saddened by the news out of Celebration, Florida regarding the Colchester family. As a community, we are committed to coming together to support students who may be emotionally impacted by this news. All of our crisis teams met early Tuesday morning and counselors are available in every school. If you have concern for your student, please contact the school for support."
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