Long Branch family’s deaths in house fire ruled murder-suicide

The death of a Long Branch public works employee, his wife and two sons in their burning home last September 1 is deemed a murder-suicide by Monmouth County investigators.

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According to the office of acting Monmouth Prosecutor Chris Gramiccioni, the death of Lyndon Beharry, a 16-year member of the department, was ruled a suicide by a single gunshot to the head.

Amanda Morris, 29, and seven-year-old Brandon Beharry died of smoke inhalation and thermal injuries, with gunshot wounds being a factor, according to the medical examiner.

Brian Beharry, 4, was determined to have died of gunshot wounds to the torso, with smoke inhalation and thermal injuries as contributing factors.

Their deaths were ruled as homicides.

Investigators determined that Lyndon Beharry fired at his wife and sons before turning the gun on himself.

The blaze on Joline Avenue that prompted a flurry of 911 calls at 11:48 PM grew to two-alarm status. Long Branch firefighters required first-response aid from neighboring West Long Branch, Sea Bright, Oakhurst and Eatontown, along with MONOC first-aiders.

All four family members were found inside a second-floor bedroom. They died during hospitalization at Monmouth Medical Center.