Homicide Investigation in Shady Cove

Update, 4/22/19 at 1:15 p.m.:

SHADY COVE – Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) detectives are releasing the names of the persons involved in a homicide in Shady Cove over Easter weekend.  Two women were found dead at a residence in the 500-block of Sarma Drive on the morning of Sunday, April 21, 2019.  One man was taken into custody at the scene and lodged in jail.

Deputies responded to the home following a 911 call from the residence on April 21 at 10:13 a.m.  The victims, Shirley Kay Gann, 62, and her daughter, Judy Mae Gann, 43, both had apparent gunshot wounds.  The Jackson County Medical Examiner’s Office will conduct autopsies to complete the identification process and to determine the official cause and manner of death. 

Responding deputies arrested Kit Warren Wilkins, 59, at the scene.  Wilkins is currently lodged in the Jackson County jail, charged with two counts of aggravated murder.  Detectives served a search warrant at the residence on Sunday. 

Investigators say Wilkins and Shirley Gann were reportedly involved in a long-term relationship and living together at the residence.  Judy Gann, the daughter of Shirley Gann, was temporarily staying at the home at the time of the incident. 

The investigation by the Major Assault and Death Investigation Unit (MADIU) is ongoing.  JCSO detectives are leading the investigation, assisted by personnel from Oregon State Police, Medford Police Department, Ashland Police Department, and the Jackson County District Attorney's Office.  Further details are not yet available for release. 

Detectives would like to speak with anyone who had contact with the victims or Wilkins on Saturday, April 20, as well as anyone who has information that may be relevant to the case.  Call Detective David Seese at (541) 774-6800.  Refer to case #19-7804.

Update, 4/22/19 at 10:10 a.m.:

The Jackson County Sheriff's Office will host a press conference at 1 p.m. today to provide an update regarding this case.  Media representatives are asked to arrive at JCSO (5179 Crater Lake Highway) at 12:45 p.m. to set up.

Original release: 4/21/19 at 3:15 p.m.:

SHADY COVE, Ore. - Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) detectives are investigating a homicide in Shady Cove.  Detectives say one person of interest is currently in custody; there is no known threat to the public regarding this incident. 

On Sunday, April 21, 2019, at 10:13 a.m., dispatch received a 911 call from a residence in the 500-block of Sarma Drive.  Deputies arrived on scene at 10:39 a.m.  

An investigator with the Jackson County Medical Examiner’s Office responded to the scene.  Detectives believe they have identified the deceased; however, the next-of-kin have not yet been notified. 

JCSO officials activated the Major Assault and Death Investigation Unit (MADIU).  JCSO investigators are assisted by personnel from the following agencies:  Oregon State Police, Medford Police Department, Ashland Police Department.  

Additional information regarding the incident will be released at a later time.  Anyone who has relevant information about the case is asked to call detectives at (541) 774-6800.  Refer to case #19-7804.

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