Police Identify Suspected Shooter, 2 Victims In Possible Murder-Suicide At Ontario Cemetery

ONTARIO (CBSLA.com) — Authorities have identified three people they say were killed in a possible double-murder suicide at an Ontario cemetery this weekend.

The shootings unfolded about 3 p.m. Saturday at Bellevue Cemetery in Ontario.

That's when police say a man ambushed another man and woman before turning the gun on himself. The suspect has been identified by police as Karapet Kalajian, 71, of Ontario.

"It's very unusual. Obviously, he knew that they were coming here this day. It's probably a significant date and it's the first time I've heard of this happening," said Sgt. Jeff Higbee of the Ontario Police Department.

Police said detectives have learned that Kalajian's wife passed away on Jan. 3, 2011 after a battle with cancer. She was buried at the cemetery.

According to authorities, the suspect had a difficult dealing with his wife's death. Police allege that he had been estranged from the family for more than a year.

Witnesses visiting grave sites say they noticed a man sitting in his car and then getting out as soon as the victims walked up.

"Yeah, he was lying in wait," the sergeant said.

An elderly woman had arrived with the victims. She was walking behind them when the shootings happened. She was not hurt.

The deceased victims were identified as the suspect's sister-in-law -- Hripsime Minasyan, 59 -- and brother-in-law -- Misak Minasyan, 60. Both were from North Hollywood.

Police found a handgun at the scene.