The tragic turn of events that left two people dead in an apparent murder suicide may be over, but the grief and shock over the loss is just beginning in a small Nova Scotia community.

It hits home for the local women’s centre because their work is trying to support women in crisis.

“Knowing that is an issue within the tragedy,” says Heather Russell, Executive Director of Central Nova Women’s Resource Centre.

The body of 47-year-old Cheryl Thompson was found Wednesday in a lower level apartment at this building on Mitchell Drive in Truro Heights.

“An autopsy performed earlier today determined that Mrs. Thompson was killed by strangulation,” explains Nova Scotia RCMP Sergeant Alain LeBlanc. “It’s important to know at this time we are not searching for other suspects in this investigation.”

Police believe Gerald Martin Thompson is responsible for her death.

Known as Marty, the 49-year-old died hours after the woman’s body was discovered.

He died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound after a stand-off with police.

Family members met with police today and have decided not to speak to the media.

“As you can imagine they have been through a lot,” says Leblanc.

The Central Nova Women’s Resource Centre has set up a fund to support the daughter.

“We know she has a young family herself,” says Russell. “We’re just trying to help.”

The province’s independent Serious Incident Response team, or SIRT, is now investigating the death of Gerald Martin Thompson.

SIRT is responsible for investigating all serious incidents involving police in Nova Scotia, whether or not there is an allegation of wrongdoing.

With files from CTV Atlantic’s Marie Adsett