Beulah Double Murder

Escambia County Florida Sheriff David Morgan says eight adopted children of a slain Buelah couple were inside the home when the double murder happened.

"I think that only adds to hatefulness and the senselessness of this act," says Morgan. "And I can tell you our community has an outpouring as we speak for the death of these two individuals."

Byrd and Melanie Billings were shot and killed Thursday night at their estate on Mobile Highway. Investigators believe three men broke into the residence then shot and killed the Billings.

"Byrd and Melanie Billings exemplified what is good in society, says Morgan."

The Billings were well-known across Pensacola for adopting special needs children. At one point, the couple had 16 children living with them. Morgan believes one of the eight children inside the home when the murder happened called a family friend who then called police.

Detectives are pulling security video from the Billings residence. The tape shows at least three men leaving in a red van. Several suspects have been questioned but so far, no arrests have been made.

Call the Escambia County Sheriff's Office is you can help deputies solve the double murder.