Husband and wife dead in shooting in Howard Township

CASS COUNTY, Mich. -- Michigan State Police are continuing their investigation into the deaths of a married couple found deceased at their home Sunday morning.

Police said a 46-year-old woman was found outside the home on Shady Shores Drive around 10:30 a.m.

The husband, a 42-year-old man, was found deceased inside the home.

Both suffered gunshot wounds.

Police have not yet confirmed the identities of the deceased, but several neighbors, close friends and relatives say the victims were Brian and Jennifer Hoese.

Those who knew the couple are shocked.

One neighbor who didn't want to be identified said "They were good people. The nicest people."

Neighbors and witnesses reported hearing gunshots between 8:30 and 9 p.m. Saturday evening.

“I definitely heard rifle shots. I don’t know what kind it was, but it was repeated shots, all in succession. I say, maybe 11 to 15,” neighbor Michael Waumans said.

On Sunday morning, neighbors noticed Jennifer in the back yard. When she hadn't moved, they went to check on her and discovered she was dead.

Autopsies on both victims are scheduled to be completed on Monday.

Michigan State Police are asking for anyone with information to please call them at 269-683-4411 or Michiana Crime Stoppers at 1-800-342-7867.