A Connecticut couple, married for over 60 years, was found dead in a murder-suicide at the Apple Rehab nursing home in Cromwell, CT on October 4, 2024. Dennis Brandt, 82, shot his 81-year-old wife, Barbara Brandt, before taking his own life. Barbara, a resident at the facility for several years, had been battling multiple health issues.
Law enforcement officials revealed that Barbara suffered fatal gunshot wounds to her head, neck, and torso, while Dennis died from a single, self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner later confirmed Barbara’s death as a homicide and Dennis’s death as a suicide. According to officials, there were no reports of a confrontation before the incident, which occurred around 11 a.m., just minutes after Dennis arrived to visit his wife.
This tragedy developed quickly, with nursing home staff immediately responding to the gunfire and alerting authorities. Apple Rehab’s Vice President of Operations, Michael Landi, explained, “There were no previous threats, and the motive is unknown to us at this time. Our staff acted quickly to ensure everyone’s safety.”
Neighbors of Dennis and Barbara Brandt expressed sadness and disbelief after learning about the tragic incident. Cassandra Manning, a resident of their condo complex, Cromwell Hills, reflected on the tragedy, lamenting that Dennis may have felt isolated. “It’s so sad that he felt he had to do what he did,” she shared, adding that she wished he had sought support during difficult times. Another neighbor, Kathy Wiendl, described Barbara as a kind, sweet woman who enjoyed baking and reading.
Barbara had been a familiar face in the condo community until her health declined, and she moved to Apple Rehab in 2021. Known as “Bobbie,” she was regarded as the head of her household, while Dennis was seen as the neighborhood’s unofficial security guard. The couple, who had lived in the complex for decades, were also known for their love of cats, which they treated like children.
Following the incident, Apple Rehab offered residents the option to move to another facility, though none chose to leave. Staff members were also allowed to be relieved, with extra personnel brought in to support the facility during the aftermath. The Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) acknowledged the tragedy and said it would continue monitoring the center’s services and care quality to ensure a safe environment.
As details continue to emerge, Apple Rehab plans to review its security protocols, including visitor check-in procedures, as part of ongoing efforts to enhance resident safety.
