The Son of a Southern California Radiologist Suspected in Double Shooting

The tragic shooting of Dr. Eric Cordes and his wife, Vicki Cordes, in Simi Valley has taken a shocking turn as their son, Keith Cordes, is identified as the primary suspect in the case. This harrowing incident has raised questions about family dynamics and potential motives behind such a violent act.

Why It Matters

This case not only highlights the alarming issue of gun violence in America but also sheds light on the complex relationships within families that can lead to tragic outcomes. The deaths of a respected physician and his wife, along with their son’s involvement as the alleged perpetrator, deeply affect their community and raise concerns about mental health and familial tension.

Key Developments

Dr. Eric Cordes, 63, and his wife Vicki, 66, were found shot in their garage on November 30.
Keith Cordes, 37, is suspected of the shootings and reportedly fled the scene in a black sedan.
Authorities located the vehicle later, which was found burned, and identified a deceased man nearby as Keith, believed to have died by suicide.
The weapon recovered is believed to be the same one used in the shootings, pending forensic testing.
The investigation is ongoing, with detectives reviewing surveillance footage and witness statements.

Full Report

Incident Overview

On November 30, Simi Valley police responded to multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire in a residential neighborhood. Upon arrival, they discovered Eric and Vicki Cordes in their garage, both suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency services transported them to a nearby trauma center, where they were pronounced dead.

Suspect Identification

Authorities quickly identified Keith Cordes as the suspect, after witnesses described a man matching his description loitering near the Cordes residence prior to the attack. Reports indicate that he may have been waiting before opening fire, suggesting a possible premeditated motive.

Discovery of the Suspect

Law enforcement utilized license plate recognition technology to track the black sedan that Keith reportedly fled in. The vehicle was eventually located burned in a different city. A man found nearby with a self-inflicted gunshot wound was later identified as Keith Cordes, with the San Bernardino County Medical Examiner confirming his identity on December 2.

Community Impact

The Adventist Health Simi Valley hospital, where Dr. Cordes worked for nearly three decades, expressed its sorrow over the tragedy. They described him as a compassionate and valued physician. A GoFundMe campaign created for the family highlighted Vicki as a loving mother and grandmother, whose death has left her loved ones devastated.