RANCHO CORDOVA, the Sacramento-area community is mourning the loss of a family of four who were found dead inside their home Tuesday in what authorities believe was a murder-suicide.
The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office said deputies responded around 8:30 a.m. to reports of gunfire at a residence on Copper Sunset Way. A caller initially reported hearing shots, followed by a second call from a man who claimed responsibility for firing a gun and alleged that booby traps had been placed inside the home. Deputies, including explosive ordnance disposal units, secured the area and conducted a careful search. No booby traps were found.
After the home was cleared, investigators discovered four individuals — a man, a woman, a boy, and a girl — all deceased from apparent gunshot wounds. Authorities later identified the victims as David Vallerga, his wife Lindsey G. Peralta Vallerga, and their two children, 11-year-old Sydney Peralta Vallerga and 13-year-old Colton Drake Peralta Vallerga.
Officials said the investigation remains ongoing, but authorities are not searching for any additional suspects.
Law enforcement activity in the neighborhood began to scale back early Tuesday afternoon as deputies cleared the scene. Investigators said it remains unclear whether the man found deceased was the same individual who made the second phone call, and no further details have been released while the investigation continues.
The deaths have sent shockwaves through the Sacramento-area community, where friends and neighbors described the Vallerga family as warm, cheerful, and closely connected to those around them.
Lindsey Vallerga was well known for her professional work in education, serving as a key figure in development and community outreach at GradePower Learning in Elk Grove. Colleagues described her as passionate about helping families and children succeed.
As news of the tragedy spread, tributes poured in remembering Sydney and Colton as kind-hearted and bright children, and their parents as loving and devoted.
The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office said the case remains a developing investigation, and additional information is expected to be released as investigators complete their work.
The community continues to grieve the loss of a family whose lives were cut short, remembering them for their kindness, energy, and the impact they had on those who knew them.
