A family in San Diego was discovered shot to death in their home on Wednesday, a situation believed to be a murder-suicide. This tragic event occurred just a day after the mother sought assistance from the Department of Veterans Affairs for her husband’s escalating mental health issues, as shared by her parents.
The victims, identified as 54-year-old Amy Voight, her husband David, and their 13-year-old daughter Mya, were found in their San Carlos residence on September 16, according to local police. Investigations are ongoing to uncover the details of the incident.
Amy had just celebrated her birthday the day before, during which she went to a VA clinic at the suggestion of her parents to get help for David.
David, a highly decorated Navy warrant officer with nearly 30 years of service, had been grappling with post-traumatic stress disorder, and his symptoms had reportedly intensified recently. Amy’s mother, Mary Austin, noted, “You could visibly see there was something really wrong,” observing that he seemed anxious and restless.
The family disclosed that David had worked alongside Navy SEALs and had served in conflict zones like Iraq and Afghanistan. As his situation worsened, Amy’s parents urged her to seek help for him.
During her visit to the VA clinic on September 15, Amy inquired about potential treatments to alleviate David’s anxiety, depression, and frustration, according to her father, Jerry Austin.
“She asked, ‘Can you do anything to help him calm down? He’s really struggling with frustration, anxiety, and depression,’” he recounted.
However, Amy reportedly received the response that because counselors were busy, she would need to make an appointment.
The following day, the Voight family was found deceased.
Amy had dedicated her career to military service as well, working as a digital forensics analyst for the Naval Criminal Investigative Service and being a devoted mother.
“She was incredibly bright and really an amazing person,” Mary Austin reflected.
The family’s portrayal of Amy’s experience at the VA has led to a response from the agency, with them contesting the claims about the care provided. VA Press Secretary Quinn Slaven stated, “What’s being alleged regarding VA services is not accurate. All VA healthcare facilities provide same-day mental healthcare to all Veterans who request it.”
Due to privacy regulations, the VA declined to comment on this specific case.
Jerry Austin, a Navy veteran himself dealing with PTSD, emphasized the urgent need for veterans in mental health crises to receive prompt care. He pointed out the responsiveness of his own clinic in Lancaster, California, as a positive example.
“My clinic that I go to is in Lancaster, California. It’s a small clinic, and it is fantastic,” he shared. “They greet you at the door and genuinely care.”
As the investigation unfolds, the Austins are left to grieve the loss of their daughter and granddaughter.
“It’s terrible, and our pain is just starting,” Jerry Austin expressed.
