On January 13, 2023, Erica Michelle Viney, a 41-year-old resident of Largo, Florida, was found deceased at a home in the 1800 block of Stancel Drive in unincorporated Clearwater. The incident occurred around 2:00 p.m. when deputies responded to multiple 911 calls reporting a male and a female had been shot.
Erica Viney had moved into the residence with Langley Dunsmuir and his wife just 11 days prior, on January 2, 2023.
According to detectives, a verbal altercation took place regarding the terms of the living arrangements, which upset Dunsmuir. Detectives believe that Dunsmuir, aged 71, murdered Viney before taking his own life with a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Viney was a well-regarded individual known for her generous heart and her passion for making people feel beautiful. She was the owner of Aviation Blond Hair Salon and had a successful career as a master cosmetologist. She was also an animal lover, particularly fond of her two German Shepherds, Axel and Stella.
The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office and the Medical Examiner’s Office are involved in the investigation. An autopsy will be conducted to determine the cause and manner of death. Viney's next of kin has been notified, and a memorial service is planned to be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations are requested to be made to “Safe Paws Rescue” in her memory.
Erica Viney is survived by her father Robert Viney, her mother Barbara Campana, her brother Robert Viney, her grandmother Barbara Viney, and several aunts, uncles, and cousins. Her family and friends have expressed deep sorrow and shock over her sudden and tragic death, remembering her for her bright spirit and the impact she had on those around her.
