Tributes to couple found dead at shooting range as cops probe ‘murder-suicide’
Locals have paid tribute to a couple found dead in a suspected murder-suicide at their shooting range.
Robert and Rose Jobson were discovered on Friday afternoon at the successful shooting school they ran together in Lincolnshire.
Cops have launched a murder probe but say they are not seeking any other suspects in relation to the double tragedy.
The victims have been named locally but the cause of their deaths is unknown.
Mr and Mrs Jobson ran White Lodge Shooting School, near the medieval ruins of Thornton Abbey in North Lincs.
Andrew Farrow, who runs Thornton Abbey Maze, next door to the shooting range, said: “She [Rose Jobson] is a very pretty lady and an accomplished shooter herself.
“The couple lived in a house in the grounds of the shooting range. Their bodies were found at the front of their home.
“They are very well known and a well-liked couple.
“The shooting school which they both ran had temporarily closed last month because of their personal dilemma.”
Mr Farrow said he did not know who raised the alarm but police were called on Friday afternoon “following reports of a concern for safety.”
He said: “It is really sad and shocking for everybody.
“I only knew then to say ‘Hello’ to but my parents knew them well.
“She was in her late 60’s and he was early 70s.
“Our maze and farm is right next door to their property, where they have been for over 30 years.
“I didn’t hear anything untoward on Friday because we hear gunshots ringing out all the time – it is a shooting school so it is not unusual to hear gunshots.”
Both Rob and Rose Jobson both have a decorated past in shooting.
Rose, believed to be in her 60s, was the 1998 British All-Round Ladies Champion and won team silver with England at the world shooting championships in New Zealand in 2002.
Rob, believed to be in his 70s, had also represented England and had more than 50 years of coaching experience.
Their shooting school has been described as having some of the most beautiful gardens in the region and is set on 15 acres of grounds.
It has previously staged events ranging from stag parties to archery training and clay pigeon shooting for people with disabilities.
Chief Inspector Al Curtis, from Lincolnshire Police, said: “Inquiries are in the very early stages to establish the circumstances of the man and woman’s death.
“An investigation has commenced, and both deaths are being treated as suspicious at this time until we establish the facts. We can confirm we are not looking for any else in relation to this enquiry.
“A scene guard will be in place while we carry out our investigation and residents will likely observe an increased policing presence in the area as we carry out all lines of inquiry.
“Specially trained officers have notified the next of kin of both victims and are being supported throughout this incredibly difficult time.
“We would like to reassure local residents there is no risk to the wider public and that we will be conducting house to house visits to provide reassurance. If anyone has any concerns, please speak to our officers.”
