Stack Family Found Dead in Chicago, Illinois Home: 80-Year-Old Parents Were Taking Care of Middle Aged Children

Several members in the same family were found dead in their home in Elmhurst, Illinois, Saturday night. The four -- a father, mother and two adult children -- were killed by a member of the family who then turned the weapon on themselves.

Police were called to the home around 6:45 p.m. for a "well-being check" when they discovered three members of the Stack family dead and another dying of a self-inflicted wound. Police Chief Michael Ruth said in a brief statement that there was no danger to the surrounding area.

The police released a statement saying the victims had "visible gunshot wounds" and were identified as Francis and Joan Stack, along with two of their children, Francis Jr. and Mary.

Ruth did not say which of the four died in a suicide and which three Stack members were killed. Police did find a weapon inside the home.

DuPage County coroner's office representatives said autopsy results would be available sometime Sunday evening.

Francis Stack, 82, was a retired utility crew worker and married to Joan Stack, also 82. The Stacks had four children: Mary, 57, was their oldest, and their youngest and only son was Frank Jr., 42. Both were reportedly disabled and lived at home under the care of their parents, according to public records.

The Stack parents filed paperwork in May 1990 with the DuPage County Circuit Court to have their two children declared legally disabled. The parents were granted their request by a judge allowing the Starks to become their children's appointed guardians through adulthood.

Through 24 years of records, the parents chronicled their life caring for their grown children.

"Francis Sr. and Joan Stack, Mary's parents, have indicated concern for Mary's future in light of their failing health and the fact that they are getting older," a 1999 report read. "This concern is their reason for seeking residential placement for her."

"Frank is taken home every weekend," a May 2008 report written by a court-appointed monitor said. "Meeting with Mr. and Mrs. Stack was a very pleasant experience. Very caring!"