HIGH POINT, N.C. (May 29, 2026) – Detectives with the High Point Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit (VCU) are investigating a murder-suicide involving 20-year-old Julissa Duarte and 22-year-old Kevin Sanchez, both of High Point, according to authorities.
Officials say the victim and the suspect previously dated.
Yesterday evening, an individual contacted High Point 911’s non-emergency line requesting a welfare check for Duarte after she had not been seen in several days and was not responding to phone calls. Officers were dispatched to the Eastchester Ridge Apartments on Chester Ridge Drive. However, due to the initial lack of a confirmed unit number, officers began checking the complex and speaking with residents in an effort to locate her apartment.
Despite repeated attempts to make contact, no one responded at Duarte’s door. While checking the residence, officers looked through a window and observed a person lying on the floor inside the apartment. Officers immediately forced entry into the unit.
Inside, they discovered two individuals — Duarte and Sanchez — both deceased from apparent gunshot wounds.
Detectives with the Violent Crimes Unit responded to process the scene and begin a full investigation. Based on preliminary findings, investigators believe Sanchez shot Duarte before taking his own life inside the apartment. The exact timeline of events will be determined by the N.C. Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (OCME).
Authorities have confirmed that Duarte’s death is being investigated as a domestic-related homicide. Investigators also stated that the two individuals had previously been in a dating relationship.
Officials emphasized that the investigation is ongoing, and all details remain preliminary at this time. Additional information will be released as it becomes available.
This case marks the sixth criminal homicide recorded in the City of High Point so far this year.
The Guilford County Family Justice Center (FJC) continues to provide support services for individuals affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, and elder abuse. The center offers victim advocacy, assistance with protective orders, safety planning, emergency shelter referrals, and access to medical and legal resources. Anyone in need of help can contact the FJC at 336-641-7233 or visit the High Point location at 505 E. Green Drive.
Authorities continue to encourage anyone experiencing domestic conflict or feeling unsafe in a relationship to seek help early and reach out to available support services before situations escalate.
The investigation remains active as detectives work to piece together the full circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
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