Elizabeth Sinderbrand Contrivo, 58, of Candler, North Carolina, was found dead outside her home on May 20, 2016, alongside her husband, Frank Joseph Contrivo, 64. Multiple 911 calls reported gunshots and screams coming from the residence; deputies discovered both victims deceased at the scene. Investigators concluded that Frank Contrivo shot Elizabeth before turning the gun on himself.

The couple’s history of domestic violence was documented in multiple protective orders that Elizabeth had filed over the years. In December she obtained a protective order that she later voluntarily dismissed. On April 29, 2016, Elizabeth charged Frank with assault, accusing him of striking her in the face with a closed fist, grabbing her by the throat, and preventing her from leaving; he was also charged with interfering with emergency communications after allegedly breaking her phone. Neighbors reported hearing Elizabeth scream for help and plead with her husband just before the gunfire.

The case underscores persistent domestic violence between the two and the tragic outcome after Elizabeth sought legal protection. If anyone knew Elizabeth or has information about the events leading up to May 20, 2016, please come forward.