Thomas “T.R.” Ocheltree, Paula Truong, and Two Children Found Dead in Suspected Murder-Suicide in Westwood Park

Thomas “T.R.” Ocheltree, Paula Truong, and Two Children Found Dead in Suspected Murder-Suicide in Westwood Park

SAN FRANCISCO, CA — A devastating and deeply heartbreaking tragedy has shaken the Westwood Park neighborhood of San Francisco, where four family members — Thomas “T.R.” Ocheltree, Paula Truong, and their two young children — were found dead inside their home on the 900 block of Monterey Boulevard in what authorities believe to be a murder-suicide. The quiet residential community, known for its century-old homes and close-knit families, is now mourning the unimaginable loss of a family that neighbors described as kind, loving, and deeply connected.

According to the San Francisco Police Department, officers were dispatched to the residence shortly before 9:00 a.m. Monday, following a welfare check request from a concerned relative who had been unable to reach the family over the weekend. Upon entering the home, officers discovered the bodies of two adults and two children, all deceased from what appeared to be gunshot wounds.

Authorities have since identified the victims as Thomas “T.R.” Ocheltree, 43; Paula Truong, 40; and their two children — a 7-year-old daughter and a 5-year-old son. Police have stated that preliminary evidence suggests that Thomas Ocheltree may have been the shooter, though the investigation remains active and final determinations will be made by the San Francisco Medical Examiner’s Office.

“This is a horrific scene — one that no officer or community should ever have to witness,” said SFPD spokesperson Sgt. Kathryn Winters during a press conference. “Our hearts go out to the extended family members, friends, and neighbors impacted by this tragic loss. We are treating this as a suspected murder-suicide, but our homicide unit is conducting a thorough and meticulous investigation.”

Neighbors told investigators they were stunned by the discovery, describing the family as quiet, friendly, and devoted to one another. “They were the kind of people who waved when you walked by,” said Eleanor Park, who lives across the street. “You’d see them outside playing with their kids, riding bikes, laughing. It’s hard to believe something like this could happen right here.”

Sources close to the family said Thomas Ocheltree worked in the tech industry and Paula Truong was an elementary school teacher in the San Francisco Unified School District. Friends say they were active parents who doted on their children, spending weekends at local parks, community events, and family gatherings.

Police have not publicly commented on a possible motive, but investigators are reportedly exploring factors including mental health challenges, financial strain, or relationship issues. Detectives are also reviewing digital evidence and communication records to determine what may have led up to the fatal incident.

The San Francisco Unified School District released a statement expressing its condolences, confirming that Paula was a respected educator beloved by her students and colleagues:

“Our district is heartbroken by the loss of one of our teachers and her family. Paula Truong was a dedicated and compassionate educator who made a difference in every child’s life she touched. We are providing grief counseling and emotional support to staff and students affected by this tragedy.”

City officials, including Mayor London Breed, also expressed sorrow and urged residents to check in on loved ones and seek help if they are struggling.

“This is a devastating reminder that even in beautiful, thriving communities, there can be unseen pain,” Mayor Breed said. “Our hearts are with the families, classmates, and neighbors grieving this tremendous loss.”

Counselors and crisis intervention teams have been deployed in the neighborhood to support residents shaken by the event. Community groups are also organizing a candlelight vigil at Westwood Park Green later this week to honor the victims and promote awareness around mental health and family wellness.

As investigators work to finalize their findings, the tragedy has left a haunting void in the heart of Westwood Park — a community that now gathers not just in grief, but in reflection on the fragile bonds of life and love.

“Everyone who knew them is broken right now,” said family friend David Nguyen. “They were good people — kind, funny, always there for others. It’s just hard to understand how something like this could happen.”

The investigation remains ongoing, and officials have asked anyone with relevant information to contact the San Francisco Police Department’s Homicide Detail at (415) 553-1145 or leave anonymous tips with SF Crime Stoppers.

As the city mourns, one message echoes throughout San Francisco: no one should suffer in silence. Mental health advocates are urging residents to reach out for help, emphasizing that compassion and community can be the difference between despair and survival.