Beverly Home Becomes Scene of Apparent Murder-Suicide; Investigation Continues

BEVERLY, Massachusetts — The quiet town of Beverly was shaken this week after two people were found dead in what officials are calling an apparent murder-suicide. The Essex County District Attorney’s Office identified the deceased as 58-year-old Becky Lynn Center and 56-year-old John Patrick Nesbitt, both residents of Beverly.

Police were called to a home on Colonial Drive around 9:40 p.m. Monday, after receiving a report of a possible disturbance and welfare concern. When officers arrived, they discovered both victims inside the residence with gunshot wounds. Paramedics and emergency personnel pronounced them deceased at the scene.

Investigators from the Beverly Police Department, Massachusetts State Police, and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner are working together to determine what led to the deaths. Early findings indicate the incident was isolated and that there is no ongoing threat to the public.

Authorities have not released details about who discharged the weapon or what may have motivated the violence. The District Attorney’s Office confirmed that the evidence currently points to an apparent murder-suicide, though the investigation remains active as detectives examine ballistic evidence, forensic findings, and the victims’ recent activities.

The Victims

Becky Lynn Center, 58, and John Patrick Nesbitt, 56, were both longtime Beverly residents who lived together in the Colonial Drive home. Neighbors described the pair as quiet and friendly, often seen walking or tending to their yard. Those who knew them are stunned by the tragedy, saying there were no outward signs of trouble.

“They were nice people,” one neighbor said. “We always waved and chatted when we saw them outside. It’s heartbreaking to think something like this could happen here.”

Friends and community members expressed disbelief on social media, sharing memories of both Center and Nesbitt and offering condolences to their families. Many described Becky as compassionate and thoughtful, while John was remembered as a hardworking, kind man who often helped others without being asked.

Police Response and Ongoing Investigation

The area around the residence was quickly cordoned off Monday night as police processed the scene. Officers collected physical evidence, including the firearm believed to be involved. Detectives spent hours interviewing neighbors, who reported hearing a loud noise but initially thought it was something else.

Autopsies were performed by the Massachusetts Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, which confirmed both victims died from gunshot wounds. The official determination of manner and cause of death remains pending final reports.

Authorities have been careful to release information slowly, prioritizing the families’ privacy and the accuracy of the investigation. As of now, officials say that all evidence indicates this was a contained domestic incident and not a random act of violence.

Community Reaction

The discovery of two deaths in such a peaceful residential area has deeply unsettled Beverly residents. Many describe the neighborhood as quiet, close-knit, and safe—a place where neighbors look out for one another.

“It’s just devastating,” said a local resident. “You never expect something like this so close to home. Everyone here is heartbroken.”

Counseling and support services have been made available to neighbors and family members affected by the tragedy. The city has also reminded residents of available mental health resources and domestic violence hotlines.

Moving Forward

As police continue to gather information, the Essex County District Attorney’s Office has reiterated that the investigation is ongoing. More details will be shared once the case is fully reviewed and the medical examiner’s reports are finalized.

For now, the Beverly community is left mourning the loss of Becky Lynn Center and John Patrick Nesbitt—two lives abruptly ended in an event that has left friends, family, and neighbors searching for answers.

The tragedy serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of compassion and awareness within the community.