Simi Valley Couple Shot to Death in Their Home; Police Say Their Son Later Died by Suicide in Chino

SIMI VALLEY, CA — A well-known Simi Valley couple was shot multiple times and killed inside their home Sunday afternoon, and police say their 37-year-old son is believed to be responsible. The suspect, identified as Keith Cordes, was later found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound more than 70 miles away in Chino, authorities announced Tuesday.

Parents Found Shot in Their Garage

Eric and Vicki Cordes, ages 63 and 66, were discovered critically injured inside the open garage of their home on Hawks Bill Place on Nov. 30. According to Simi Valley police, their son entered the residence and opened fire, striking both victims several times.

They were rushed to a nearby trauma center but were pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

Neighbors told CBS Los Angeles that the couple was deeply rooted in the community. Eric Cordes was a board-certified radiologist with Adventist Health Simi Valley for nearly 30 years, while Vicki taught fitness classes and was widely regarded as a warm, welcoming presence in the neighborhood.

Son Identified Through Camera Tracking

Investigators quickly identified Keith Cordes — Eric’s son and Vicki’s stepson — as a possible suspect. A FLOCK camera system captured his black Honda Civic leaving the Wood Ranch neighborhood moments after the shooting.

License-plate cameras later recorded the car traveling south on the 210 Freeway, exiting in Chino before arriving at Ayala Park, where officers say the vehicle was set on fire.

Shortly afterward, police found a man dead nearby from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Burn damage at the scene initially made identification difficult, but the San Bernardino County Medical Examiner confirmed Tuesday that the deceased individual was Keith Cordes.

Detectives say preliminary evidence indicates the same gun was used in both the double homicide and his suicide.

Investigation Into Motive Continues

Authorities are still working to determine what led to the deadly attack. No motive has been publicly identified, and investigators are examining the family’s history and recent interactions.

Neighbors have been left devastated by the loss of Eric and Vicki, describing them as “cornerstones” of the community and expressing shock at the violent turn of events.

Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Simi Valley Police Department.

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