A couple was found dead in their Manalapan home Monday night in an apparent murder-suicide.

Authorities say Joseph Importuna, 38, shot and killed his wife, Vincenza, 32, in their bedroom and then fatally shot himself. Their bodies were found by Importuna's brother and sister-in-law in the Bailey Court house. Prosecutors say the case is proceeding as an apparent murder-suicide based on preliminary investigations.

Police say the couple was having marital problems. According to investigators, Vincenza made preliminary attempts to dissolve the marriage. Prosecutors say Joseph dropped off the couple's two children, a 9-year-old girl and a 4-year-old boy, at his brother's house Monday so he could talk with his wife privately. That was the last time anyone saw the husband and wife alive.