'Complete tragedy': Cause of death for 2 adults, 3 children found dead inside Phoenix home released

PHOENIX - Over three months after a family of five was found dead inside a north Phoenix home, the medical examiner has released the cause of deaths a woman and her three children who were allegedly killed by the woman's husband.

Phoenix Fire HAZMAT crews and police officers responded to a home near 7th Avenue and Northern because of a reported "hazardous situation" and a possible unresponsive person just after 8 a.m. on Nov. 16, 2022.

Phoenix Fire said that crews did find a presence of gas, which made it a bit difficult for first responders to investigate the scene right away and get inside the home. "Southwest Gas crews did, however, determine there was no natural gas reads outside the home from the meter to the street through survey activity," the company said.

Map of the area:

Once crews made their way inside, two adults and three kids were found dead with obvious signs of trauma, says Phoenix Police Sgt. Melissa Soliz, adding that a suspect isn't believed to be on the loose. It's not clear what led up to the family being killed.

The victims have been identified as 44-year-old Jasen Hudgens, 40-year-old Marla Hudgens, and their three children – 3-year-old Christopher Hudgens, and 6-month-olds Gwen and Faye Hudgens.

Police believe there were open propane tanks inside the home and a gas line that was not attached to a kitchen appliance. Jasen Hudgens has been identified as the suspect in the incident. He died from what is believed to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

On March 7, a report from the medical examiner's office revealed that the family had been stabbed to death. 

According to a statement released by SRP on Nov. 17, Jasen was an SRP employee.

"Our thoughts are with the family, friends and everyone affected by this heartbreaking situation," read a portion of the statement.

On the same day, officials with the Lewis Roca Law Firm also issued a statement, saying Marla worked there. The statement reads:

"We are overwhelmed with grief at the loss of our friend, colleague and partner, Marla Hudgens, and her family. We are in complete shock and are only just beginning to process this awful tragedy."

"This scene is a complete tragedy behind us. Not only is this devastating to first responders that had to respond and witness what's inside, but this neighborhood is very close-knit," Soliz remarked. "Detectives are going to take their time and ensure that this investigation is thoroughly investigated and looked at. We need to look at every possible angle, all the evidence, and that's going to take some time."

Community left stunned

"Tremendous family."

That's all a woman tearfully said as she walked to the home where the family of five was found.

Throughout the day, besides police investigators, friends and family arrived to the scene obviously distraught and stunned, as is the entire community.

"Well, I heard it. I thought it was just a rumor. I didn't want to believe it. It's very upsetting and scary. I haven't really processed it," said Arlene Lotstein, a neighbor. "I'm shaking right now."

Help is available. If you or a loved one is feeling distressed, call or text 988. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provides free and confidential emotional support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to civilians and veterans. Support in Spanish is also available by calling 988. You can also chat with crisis counselors via online chat.

CLICK HERE for the warning signs and risk factors of suicide.

Watch the full Nov. 16 police news conference: