Mentally Handicapped Man And His Caretaker Found Dead In New Castle

By Oren Liebermann 

NEW CASTLE, Del. (CBS) - Delaware State Police are investigating the deaths of a special needs man and his caretaker, who were both found dead inside the man's New Castle, Del. home Saturday. They say it appears they were beaten to death.

According to authorities, the bodies were discovered on the 4600 block of New Castle Avenue just before 4:30 p.m. at the home of 48-year-old Joey Taylor, who was mentally handicapped. His caretaker, 52-year-old Mary Dale, who lived with Taylor, was also found dead.

Police say their bodies were found in different parts of the house, and there were signs of a struggle. They say the suspect tried to blow up the house by turning on the gas.

"Joey was a good-hearted guy," says his sister, Margie Taylor. "He didn't deserve this. Everybody loved Joey."

Margie Taylor said her brother would never hurt anyone. He lived in this same house for nearly 40 years, splitting his time between his job and his church. Saturday night was Joey's Bowlarama night, but for some reason, he did not go this night.

"I was truly crushed, because this was just so undeserving," said lifelong friend Angela Parker.

Police say there was no sign of forced entry.  A family member came to check on Joey Saturday afternoon, only to find that Joey and Mary Dale had been killed.

The incident remains under investigation.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police.