The bodies of four individuals, believed to be a family, were discovered in a home on Monterey Boulevard in San Francisco’s West Side on Wednesday. The deceased include two adults, identified as Paula Truong and Thomas Russell Ocheltree, along with their two children. Authorities are investigating the situation as a potential murder-suicide, although the official details surrounding their deaths remain unconfirmed.
Family Background and Financial Struggles
Truong and Ocheltree, who were small-business owners, purchased their home for $1.3 million over a decade ago. Their neighborhoods were characterized by affluence and low crime rates, making the gruesome discovery unexpected for residents.
Over recent years, the couple faced increasing financial difficulties. Public records indicated that they had encountered a series of failed business ventures, including an auto dismantling business and several cafes. Notably, their high-end liquor store, Starr Spirits, closed in 2023 after struggling to attract local customers.
Debt and Foreclosure
- Truong stopped paying invoices to her tax preparer about five years ago, leading to significant financial stress.
- In 2014, the couple used their home as collateral to secure loans totaling nearly $500,000.
- By 2019, they had accrued additional debts, including two loans exceeding $2.7 million, which worsened their financial situation.
- Their home was in the process of foreclosure due to unpaid debts, with a 2023 sale price listed at $2 million.
Despite their financial troubles, neighbors viewed the family as friendly but somewhat private. They often enjoyed outdoor family meals, creating a wholesome atmosphere that belied their struggles. However, in recent months, neighbors noticed a decline in activity around their home, raising suspicions about their situation.
Community Reactions and Investigations
Local residents expressed shock and sadness following the news of the family’s deaths. A neighbor recalled the children playing in the garden and noted a recent decrease in neighborhood interactions. Police were alerted to the home by Ocheltree’s brother on the day the bodies were found, reflecting the concern of loved ones.
Community members described the family as warm and normal. Former business associates shared memories of their endeavors and the support they offered to others in the local industry.
The ongoing investigation by the San Francisco police and the medical examiner’s office may provide more clarity on the causes surrounding this tragic incident. Responses from Truong and Ocheltree’s relatives and friends have been limited, as they are still processing the shocking news.
