Full Breakdown
Tragic Double Homicide in Simi Valley Involves Son as Primary Suspect
12/6/2025, 11:52:20 AM
Incident Overview: Double Shooting in Simi Valley
On December 1, 2025, Dr. Eric Cordes, 63, and his wife, Vicki Cordes, 66, were fatally shot in their garage at their Simi Valley home. The couple was attacked shortly after noon, suffering multiple gunshot wounds before being transported to a local hospital, where they later succumbed to their injuries. Law enforcement identified their son, Keith Cordes, 37, as the primary suspect in the shooting.
Suspect's Actions and Subsequent Death
Following the shooting, Keith Cordes fled the scene in a black Honda Civic with out-of-state plates. He was later found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound at Ayala Park in Chino, approximately 70 miles from the crime scene. Authorities discovered his body next to his burning vehicle, which he had set on fire prior to taking his own life. The San Bernardino County Medical Examiner confirmed his identity on December 2, 2025. Investigators believe the firearm used in Keith's suicide is the same weapon that killed his parents, although forensic testing is still pending.
Investigation and Motive
Simi Valley police are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the double homicide. While Keith Cordes was identified as a resident of Simi Valley, reports indicate he lived in Kentucky prior to the incident. The police have not yet established a motive for the shooting, and relatives have been unable to provide any insights into the reasons behind the attack. Sgt. Rick Morton of the Simi Valley Police Department stated, “Detectives are still assembling a narrative surrounding the slayings.”
Community Response and Remembrance
The tragic deaths of Eric and Vicki Cordes have left a significant impact on the Simi Valley community. Focus Medical Imaging, where Dr. Cordes worked for over 30 years, expressed their sorrow, stating, “His tragic passing will leave a huge hole that will take a long time to fill.” Adventist Health Simi Valley also mourned the loss, describing Dr. Cordes as a “highly respected, board-certified radiologist and beloved physician.”
Official Statements
In a statement, the Simi Valley Police Department confirmed the ongoing investigation into the double homicide and the circumstances leading to Keith Cordes' death. They emphasized the need for thorough forensic analysis to confirm the weapon used in both incidents.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While police have established Keith Cordes as the primary suspect, details regarding his motive remain unclear. There is also a discrepancy regarding his residency, as he is listed as a resident of Simi Valley but reportedly lived in Kentucky. Investigators have not disclosed how long he had been in California before the shooting.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He’s our primary suspect,” — Sgt. Rick Morton, Simi Valley Police Department
- “The Adventist Health Simi Valley community is heartbroken by the tragic deaths of our longtime colleague, Dr. Eric Cordes, and his wife, Vicki. Dr. Cordes was a highly respected, board-certified radiologist and beloved physician who served this community with compassion and excellence for nearly 30 years,” — Adventist Health Simi Valley Statement
- “His tragic passing will leave a huge hole that will take a long time to fill," Focus Medical Imaging said.” — Focus Medical Imaging Statement
The investigation continues as authorities seek to understand the events leading up to this tragic incident.
