PEEBLES, Ohio — A husband and wife killed in a murder-suicide in Adams County have been identified by investigators and their family.
According to the Adams County Sheriff’s Department, 33-year-old Rachel Madden was killed by her 32-year-old husband, Jason Madden, at the Southern Ohio Lumber company in Peebles Wednesday afternoon. Officials said Jason Madden drove away from the scene and later took his own life at the intersection of State Routes 32 and 41.
Family members said the couple was ending their 13-year marriage when the shooting happened. They leave behind their 12-year-old son.
"I’m praying that his mind and heart is protected," said Whitney Bradshaw, who said her nephew is in need of prayers and more. "This could really break a person and I'm praying that God heals his heart."
Bradshaw is Rachel's twin sister.
"It was just so surreal," Bradshaw said. "She loved her family and she loved her son. She did the best to love those around her and did whatever she could to help anyone who needed a helping hand."
Bradshaw said there were red flags leading up to the shooting and Jason Madden appeared to be mentally unwell.
"She worked on getting a restraining order against him," Bradshaw said. "She wanted an amicable divorce where they could get along and where Eric could see his father."
The two worked together at Southern Ohio Lumber company.
"She wanted him to still be able to make an income ... he was the mechanic and he worked outside and she worked in the office, but he kept violating that," she said. "We are praying that we as a family feel God's comfort."
Jason Madden's family is hurting too.
"My brother snapped," Elizabeth Cook said. "I can't believe it's real."
Cook said she saw Jason Madden hours before the shooting and he seemed depressed. Now, she's hoping there is room in everyone's heart to forgive what her brother did.
"I want them to know that I'm sorry for what my brother did," Cook said. "I hope that they'll forgive him. "
GoFundMe accounts have been set up by both Rachel and Jason's families to help with funeral expenses and also for the couple’s son.
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