A New Jersey community is grappling with the aftermath of a devastating incident in which a mother is believed to have fatally shot her husband and two young daughters before taking her own life. The event occurred inside the family’s home in Union, New Jersey.
On January 19, 2024, Union County authorities reported that 42-year-old Andrea Alarcon shot her 51-year-old husband, Ruben Alarcon, and their daughters, nine-year-old Scarlett and six-year-old Emma, in their Lincrest Terrace home. The Union County Sheriff’s Department discovered the bodies when they arrived at the residence on an unrelated issue. A joint investigation by the Union County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide Unit and the Union Police Department concluded that Andrea Alarcon was responsible for the deaths, using a gun found near her body.
The Alarcon family was facing significant challenges at the time of the incident. Their suburban home was in the process of being foreclosed on. The property had been sold for $322,000 at a sheriff’s sale in November, and the family, who had lived there for 15 years, was given 60 days to vacate or face eviction. Sheriff’s officers, arriving to serve an eviction notice, found the family with fatal gunshot wounds.
Andrea Alarcon, remembered as a dedicated mother, was actively involved in her children’s lives. Emma’s pre-K teacher, Rafaela Remelgado, who taught at Hannah Caldwell School in Union during the 2021-2022 school year, described Emma as a “petite little girl” from an “amazing family.” Andrea was known for her involvement in school activities, often preparing special lunches for Emma and contributing to class events. Remelgado, now a kindergarten teacher in North Carolina, expressed her shock over the incident.
The community response to the tragedy has been one of disbelief and mourning. Neighbors and local residents have shared their fond memories of the family, emphasizing their friendly and caring nature. A woman, who wished to remain anonymous, was seen lighting a candle outside the family’s former home, while others laid flowers and balloons. A neighbor named Patricia reflected on the family’s long presence in the community and their positive reputation.
The funeral for the Alarcon family is scheduled for January 24 at St. Michael’s Church in Union, with visitation and burial to be held privately. The community has been invited to contribute to the funeral and cemetery expenses, with details available on the funeral home’s website.