Investigation continues into death of elderly couple

Barbara Russo, Phillip Russo found dead

DEERFIELD BEACH, Fla. – The identities of an elderly man and woman whose bodies were found inside their apartment in Deerfield Beach on Monday were released Tuesday afternoon.

The Broward Sheriff's Office identified the victims as 78-year-old Barbara Russo and her husband, 88-year-old Phillip Russo.

"They've been here many years and they're a delightful, wonderful couple," said Evelyn Appelbaum.

"It hurts, it really hurts," said Evelyn Russo. "When one of us gets hurt, we really feel it."

Late Tuesday morning, the couple's car was towed away. Evidence markers were clearly visible on the driver's side back door.

On Monday, the couple's daughter found her parents' bodies when she went to their apartment at 2440 Deercreek County Club Boulevard to check on them about 6:40 p.m., according to the Broward County Sheriff's Office.

Detectives have not said how couple died, only saying it was suspicious and foul play is suspected.

Mike Hanley, a neighbor, said the couple had lived in the apartment for awhile.

"They were just a nice couple. They've been here for a long time and the daughter lives above me, and she checks on them all the time," he said.

BSO said it considers this a double murder.

An award of up to $3,000 is being offered for information leading to an arrest.

If you have any information that can help, call Broward Crimestoppers at 954-493-TIPS.