Police Identify Son as Suspect in Fatal Shooting of California Doctor and Wife

A tragic incident unfolded in Simi Valley, California, when a prominent local doctor and his wife were fatally shot. The main suspect in this double homicide is their son, who later died by suicide.

Incident Overview

On a Sunday, police received reports of gunfire at a residence in Simi Valley. Upon arrival, officers discovered Eric Cordes, 63, and his wife, Vickie Cordes, 66, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds in their open garage. They were taken to a local trauma center, where both were pronounced dead.

Suspect Identification

Witnesses described seeing a suspect approach the garage and open fire before fleeing the scene in a black sedan with out-of-state plates. Police later identified this vehicle as belonging to Keith Cordes, 37, the couple’s son and a stepson to Vicki Cordes, originally from Kentucky.

• Name: Keith Cordes
• Age: 37

Authorities tracked the vehicle to Chino, where it was discovered that Keith had set it on fire. He subsequently died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Although initial burns delayed identification, the San Bernardino County Medical Examiner confirmed the deceased was indeed Keith Cordes.

Investigation and Evidence

Detectives are currently probing the circumstances surrounding this tragic event. They believe the firearm located in Keith Cordes’ vehicle matches the weapon used in the shooting of his parents.

Remembering Eric Cordes

Eric Cordes served as a radiologist at Adventist Health Simi Valley for almost three decades. The hospital expressed its sorrow, stating, “The Adventist Health Simi Valley community is heartbroken by the tragic deaths of our longtime colleague, Dr. Eric Cordes, and his wife, Vicki. Dr. Cordes was a highly respected physician who served this community with compassion.”

Colleagues also remembered him fondly. Dr. James Lin Jr., a fellow radiologist, described Eric as a dedicated professional and caring doctor who significantly impacted the community throughout his career.

Support Resources

In light of these events, anyone in crisis can contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. Additional assistance is available at 988lifeline.org and through resources at SpeakingOfSuicide.com.