Addison tragedy a murder-suicide, coroner says

The DuPage County coroner's office confirmed Thursday the death of four Addison family members was a murder-suicide, and police found a handwritten note at the scene.

Elizabeth Mangiantini, 46, and her sons Angelo, 12, and Tommy, 8, all died of gunshot wounds to the head. Elizabeth and Tommy were each shot once, and Angelo was shot multiple times, according to autopsy results. Their deaths were ruled homicides.

Thomas Mangiantini Sr. 48, died of a single self-inflicted gunshot wound to the mouth, according to the coroner's report.

Police found a one-page note handwritten by Thomas, according to Addison Police Chief Tim Hayden. Hayden would not elaborate on what was in the note, but said Mangiantini seemed "distraught."

Hayden said he believes the note will provide police with a motive for the killings, but investigators want to speak with both families before more information is released.

Police received a 911 call about 6:30 a.m. Wednesday from 225 S. Wisconsin Ave. and could hear gunfire in the background.

All four family members were dead upon officers' arrival - Elizabeth on the first floor, her husband and their two sons in an upstairs hallway.

"As far as the kids go, I don't think they ever saw it coming, or knew what happened, " Hayden said.

Police recovered two guns at the scene, both of which were used in the residence, Hayden said. Ballistics and toxicology tests are pending.

Those who knew the Mangiantinis say they were a well-known, friendly family that was active in the community. Thomas coached baseball for the nonprofit Addison Recreation Club while Elizabeth helped with school fundraisers.

Angelo was a sixth-grader at Indian Trail Junior High while his younger brother Tommy attended Fullerton Elementary School.

The Mangiantini family had lived in the Addison neighborhood since 1993 - two years after the couple married - and had no police record of prior domestic disturbances.

Elizabeth lost her job in June and Thomas' work hours had been cut back, which may have put the family under financial stress.