Wilbraham, Mass. — A peaceful Father’s Day spent at a cherished local Armenian church turned tragic this week as a local mother and her son were found dead in their home in an apparent murder-suicide involving her longtime boyfriend. The bodies of Sima Setian Pariseau and her 27-year-old son, Dylan Pariseau, were discovered on Tuesday morning following a welfare check initiated by concerned family members.
The community knew Sima Setian Pariseau as an active, energetic member who served as Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees at St. Gregory’s Armenian Apostolic Church. Her son, Dylan, grew up attending Sunday school at the church and was described by Pastor Bedros Shetilian as a kind individual always ready to lend a hand.
Their deaths have cast a deep shadow over the community, leaving friends and family grappling with shock and sorrow. According to authorities, police found the bodies multiple times shot in the basement of their home. Peter Donaldson, 56, identified as Sima Setian Pariseau’s boyfriend of six years, was also found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot in the living room.
Described by Pastor Shetilian as “cold” and distant, Donaldson rarely accompanied Sima to church gatherings. Shetilian noted that Donaldson had recently been laid off from a printing company and that Sima had confided her intentions to end their relationship soon.
Adding to the tragedy, Dylan had recently returned to live with his mother following his own job loss, after being laid off from a position in Cambridge three months prior. His return was intended as a temporary measure until he could secure new employment. Dylan was a graduate of Minnechaug Regional High School and Keene State College in New Hampshire, and he was actively looking for opportunities to reestablish his independence.
The shocking event unveiled a quiet struggle within a family deeply embedded in the local community and the church. Sima’s commitment to her faith and her church was reflected in how she raised Dylan, who also embraced the church as a pillar in his life.
Family ties run deep in the community, with Sima’s brother serving as a deacon in the church. After hearing of the incident, he rushed from New York City to support the grieving family, anchored by Sima’s parents who have long been residents of Wilbraham.
The loss has rippled through the congregation, prompting plans for a memorial service to honor their lives and contributions. The church, in mourning, remembered Sima as a beacon of light and support for her family and community, citing her vibrant personality and enduring commitment to the welfare of the church and its members.
The church has also expressed its hope for solace and peace for the surviving members of Sima and Dylan’s family, reflecting on the significant role both mother and son played in their spiritual community. They pray for strength and healing during this incredibly difficult time, as the community attempts to come to terms with such an incomprehensible loss.