Clearwater Police officers responded to multiple calls related to a shooting about 8:15 p.m. on Friday, February 9, 2024 in the 2300 block of Hillcreek Circle East in the Countryside area.
Two people, an adult female and an adult male, were found deceased.
Clearwater Police homicide detectives have determined the two deaths were a murder-suicide. A long-term relationship between the two individuals had recently ended.
On Friday night, 71-year-old Francis Scoza of Dunedin went to the home of 61-year-old Audrey Petersen at 2369 Hillcreek Circle E. He forced his way into the rear of the home where he fired a shot as Petersen fled the residence.
Scoza followed her as she ran toward a neighbor’s house for help. He shot her multiple times and she collapsed and died outside the house.
Scoza then shot himself and died in the same neighbor’s yard. The investigation continues.