Video: Mother, child found killed inside Terneuzen home; Investigation ongoing
Residents of the Noordpolder neighborhood in Terneuzen were shocked by the discovery of two dead bodies in a home on Vincent van Goghstraat on Monday afternoon. Police formally identified the victims as a mother and her child, a primary school student, both of whom were living in the home. Violence was involved in the deaths, investigators confirmed the following morning.
At least one early report from the scene indicated a shooting may have taken place in the area. It was not disclosed if a suspect was in custody, nor if police were looking for any persons of interest.
Police dispatchers said they were notified of the incident shortly before 5:30 p.m., around the time records show paramedics were sent to that street to assist with attempts to revive at least one individual. Police were quick to designate it as a "serious violent crime," adding on Tuesday that both victims were dead before emergency services workers arrived.
The police response brought out stunned onlookers who stood near the four-storey apartment complex after police cordoned off the block. The area was eerily quiet as the investigation got underway, but screams of anguish could be heard from time to time, according to local newspaper PZC.
Less than three hours later, authorities confirmed that one person died at the scene. Investigators toned down their public statement, to say an investigation was underway to determine what exactly happened. It was not clear if the second victim was also pronounced dead at the apartment.
A grey Opel Astra five-door car was towed away from the scene some time later, after large black privacy screens were placed around the parking area at the apartment complex. "Forensic investigators conducted their investigation throughout the evening and part of the night," police said.
"The investigative team is doing its utmost to clarify the situation as quickly as possible. Several witnesses have been interviewed," the police statement continued. Authorities asked anyone who can help "shed some light on the matter" to contact them immediately.
"Our condolences go out to the families of the victims. We also extend our deepest sympathy to all those affected, including friends, acquaintances, neighbors, and the primary school involved," said Erik van Merrienboer, the mayor of the Zeeland city.
"At this time, there are still many unanswered questions. We are awaiting the outcome of the investigation," he said.
