(ETH) – A couple in Brazil have reportedly been shot dead by a neighbor who “blamed them for infecting his family with Covid,” police say. Flanklaber Silva e Silva, 40, and his wife, Marília Silva e Silva, 37, were both killed in Goiás on Tuesday in what has been described as an act of vengeance.

According to TheSun, The suspect, who has not been identified, is believed to have lost both his father and his brother to the virus earlier this year. Brazilian Media report that he allegedly approached the victims who were working in a large shed before firing 20 shots and feeling the scene.

He allegedly shot Mr. Flanklaber in the head and Marília in the face. Flanklaber died instantly at the scene, while Marília was rushed to hospital where she too succumbed to her injuries. The couple’s son, Flanklaber Silva e Silva Junior, 21, was also shot in the leg suffering a fracture but is said to be recovering from his injuries.

The suspect was later caught and arrested by Civil Police on Tuesday night. An investigation has now been opened into the build-up to the incident which cops believe was “motivated by revenge.” The Mirror stated:

“They were suffering death threats, as they were accused of having transmitted Covid-19 to the shooter’s family,” Felipe Sala of the Itumbiara Homicide Investigation Group said. “The suspect went to the scene to avenge the death of his relatives.” “The suspect went to the scene to avenge the death of his relatives.”