Vernon police probing couple's death

VERNON — Township police are looking into the deaths of a Vernon couple who were found dead in their bed from what appeared to be gunshot wounds on Thursday morning.

Police said they responded to Woodland Hills Drive in response to a request to check on the welfare of Cindy Fortino, 41, and her husband Dean Fortino, 45. Upon arrival, police found both invididuals dead in their bed from gunshot wounds, authorities said.

The Sussex County Medical examiner conducted an autopsy and determined both were killed by a gunshot wound and ruled Cindy Fortino's death a suicide, according to a statement from Vernon Police Lt. Brian Jernick.

Police said Dean Fortino's death was classified as undetermined and is still under examination.

Police said there is no evidence a third party was involved.

Jernick declined to answer questions regarding the case.

Dean Fortino was a conductor at New Jersey Transit, according to his obituary.

The Fortino's had two young children, Isabella and Vincent. The two attended classes at Cedar Mountain Elementary School and Lounsberry Hollow Middle School.

Vernon School District Superintendent Dr. Charles Maranzano said the children are currently with family outside the district.

Counselors have been made available to students and parents for counseling and consoling, he said. "Our role is provide support where support is needed," Maranzano said. "Our goal is to reduce anxiety."