Deputies found Stephen and Tracey Willetts dead after the wearable device placed an automated call to emergency services.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY, N.C. — A smartwatch’s automated emergency call brought first responders to a Rowsgate Lane home, where deputies found a husband and wife dead in what investigators now believe was a murder-suicide.
The New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office identified the couple as Stephen Larnell Willetts and Tracey Parker Willetts. Authorities said both were found with apparent gunshot wounds early July 30 after emergency medical personnel requested help entering the residence.
A Sheriff’s Office spokesperson said a smartwatch worn by one of the couple detected an emergency and contacted 911 after its alarm was not canceled. The publicly released accounts differed on whether the device responded to a fall or another health reading, but officials agreed that the automated call prompted the response.
Emergency medical crews arrived first but could not gain access to the home. Deputies were called to assist and entered the property, where they found the couple dead. Authorities said there was no indication that someone had forced entry into the residence.
The following day, investigators said evidence led them to believe Tracey Willetts fatally shot Stephen Willetts before taking her own life. The Sheriff’s Office has not disclosed what evidence produced that conclusion or what may have led to the deaths.
Officials said the incident appeared isolated and that there was no known threat to the surrounding community. No other person has been publicly identified as a suspect or participant in the case.
The deaths shocked neighbors who said they regularly saw Stephen Willetts walking his dog and speaking with people along the street. Residents remembered him as outgoing, physically active and willing to stop for friendly conversations.
Friends said Stephen and Tracey Willetts also had longstanding ties to the Wrightsville Beach paddleboarding community. A local paddleboard business owner said he had known the couple for more than a decade through their shared interest in outdoor activities and time on the water.
The couple had recently marked their 40th wedding anniversary, according to a friend quoted by local media. Investigators have not said whether that date had any connection to the deaths, and no motive has been publicly identified.
The Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the sequence of events inside the home. Autopsy findings and other investigative details had not been released as of Saturday, and officials said further information would be provided when available.
Author note: Last updated August 1, 2026.