SHAWANO, Wis. (WSAU) – Financial stress led to the apparent murder-suicide of an elderly couple in Shawano Monday, police said today.

Officials said 87-year-old Bill Pedersen shot his 82-year-old wife, and then turned the gun on himself.

Police Chief Ed Whealon said a family member found the couple dead, after trying to reach them all day.

Authorities said the couple’s financial stress was explained in a letter sent to a relative.

Because of that letter, autopsies will not be performed Tuesday as reported earlier.