Simi Valley, California — A son is the prime suspect in a double homicide that claimed the lives of his father, a local radiologist, and his stepmother over the weekend. Authorities have identified the shooter as 37-year-old Keith Cordes, who allegedly shot his parents before fleeing the scene.
Police received several emergency calls reporting gunfire around noon on November 30. Upon arrival, officers found 63-year-old Dr. Eric Cordes and his 66-year-old wife, Vicki Cordes, with multiple gunshot wounds in their home’s open garage. Both victims were transported to a nearby trauma center, where they were later pronounced dead.
Investigation details indicate that the attack was premeditated. Witnesses reported seeing a man matching the suspect’s description near the residence shortly before the shooting. One neighbor recounted hearing gunshots shortly after noon, suggesting the shooter may have deliberately waited to ambush the couple.
Police stated that Keith Cordes fled the scene in a black sedan with out-of-state plates, which was later linked to him. Investigators used automatic license plate recognition systems to trace the vehicle. It was discovered abandoned and burned in another city, where a man was found nearby with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. The San Bernardino County Medical Examiner confirmed that this man was Keith Cordes.
Detectives believe the firearm recovered is the same weapon that was used in the tragic attack. Forensic testing is currently underway to confirm this connection. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, with detectives continuing to analyze witness statements, surveillance footage, and physical evidence from the scene.
Dr. Eric Cordes had a notable career as a board-certified radiologist, serving nearly three decades with Adventist Health Simi Valley. The medical facility expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Dr. Cordes and his wife, acknowledging his compassionate care for patients over the years.
Family members described Vicki Cordes as a devoted mother, grandmother, and sister, whose warmth and joy brought light to those around her. A GoFundMe page established in her honor highlighted her loving nature and emphasized the profound emptiness her family feels following her death.
The investigation into this shocking incident is ongoing, with law enforcement urging anyone who may have further information to come forward. As the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragedy, many are left questioning what could lead to such a devastating act.