Murder/suicide still a mystery

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — It’s a bizarre incident that still has the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office asking questions. Investigators say two New Hanover County residents are dead in a possible murder/suicide.

Deputies responded to a call at 3:30 p.m. Saturday. A man had jumped from the North College Road overpass onto I-140. Dep. J.L. Augst of The New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office said Joseph Rouse, 37, died at the scene, but this was just the beginning of the case.

“The sister of the victim coincidentally happened to be driving by and noticed the second victim’s car that the man had driven to the top of the overpass was still parked on the overpass,” Augst said. “And she approached deputies and subsequently led them to the apartment where deputies discovered the second victim.”

Augst said Kimberly Williams Hill, 42, was found dead inside her Providence Park apartment. According to investigators, Rouse and Hill were romantically involved.

“They were in a dating relationship,” Augst said. “I’m not certain if he was living at the residence or not, but certainly they were in a domestic relationship in that they were dating.”

Deputies say they believe Rouse may have killed Hill and then took his own life. They hope to have answers soon.

“At this point, the investigation is still continuing, and cause of death will be available later in the week,” Augst said.

Investigators say autopsies have been scheduled to determine the cause of death for both victims.