Cumberland Police Share Final Update in Investigation into June Death of Married Couple

CUMBERLAND — Chief Matthew J. Benson wishes to share a final update into the investigation of the deaths of two people on June 22.

A thorough investigation of the facts and circumstances by Cumberland Police detectives, working with the Rhode Island State Police, Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha’s office and the Office of State Medical Examiners, has determined that Courtney Huard, age 42, was the victim of a domestic homicide and was fatally shot by her husband Eric Huard, age 51.

The investigation has also determined that Eric Huard subsequently fatally shot himself.

“I would like to recognize the diligent efforts and collaborative approach of Cumberland Police detectives, the Rhode Island State Police, Attorney General Neronha’s office and the Office of State Medical Examiners,” Chief Benson said. “We are reminded that there are three children who lost their parents, and two families that are devastated by the loss of their loved ones. Our thoughts continue to be with them at this time.”

The real story? Eric Huard could not do anything right and needed two shots to end his own life. Because both Courtney and Eric received two gunshots apiece, authorities were initially open to a possible third party. The families had a joint wake and funeral to spare the children of going through two wakes and two funerals, but the delay in the investigation result and separate services fueled speculation on a possible arrest. Rumors fly of a possible love triangle and that Courtney was ready to shed Eric and move on with her life. The biggest mistake she ever made was marrying Eric Huard, who killed his wife and himself with his three children in the home.