OLALLA, Wash. — A couple was found dead on their Olalla property Thursday evening in what Kitsap County investigators believe was a double homicide.
Deputies from the Kitsap County Sheriff's Office (KCSO) were called around 5:15 p.m. Thursday to a home on the 12900 block of Shady Glen Avenue Southeast in Olalla for a report of "suspicious circumstances."
Investigators said a concerned daughter went to the Olalla home to check on her parents, Steven Shulz, 51, and Mina Shulz, 51. When the woman arrived, she noticed there was forced entry into the home and blood inside. She did not see either of her parents and called 911 to alert authorities.
Deputies searching the area found the couple dead on the property. Detectives quickly determined the deaths were a result of “homicidal violence,” the KCSO said. The Kitsap County Coroner's Office will determine the cause and manner of their death at a later time.
Shady Glen Avenue was closed to everyone except residents for most of the day Friday as investigators processed the scene.
The public is asked to contact Detective Jennifer Rice at 360-337-5616 or by email at kcsodetectives@kitsap.gov if you have any information about the homicide investigation, especially if you saw anyone suspicious in the area.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers or by using the P3Tips app.
The couple is described as "cherished members of the Olalla community."
The couple owned East 2 West Brewing. Mary Ellen Houston sold their beer at her vineyard and quickly became friends with them.
"Two lovely, wonderful people," she said.
Houston remembers Steven and Mina as "big-hearted people" who were willing to help at a moment's notice.
“They’re greatly missed as friends and it’s such a tragedy, I can’t even fathom," Houston said. "I think I’m still in shock about it to be honest.”
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