LAS VEGAS -- Authorities believe they know what happened before three people were found dead in Wednesday’s homicide-suicide in a Las Vegas home.

The bodies of Genevieve Okin, 75; her 80-year-old husband Paul; and the couple's 46-year-old son, Maque, were discovered Wednesday afternoon when a concerned loved one called police.

Police said they believe Paul killed his family before taking his own life.

This type of violence is becoming a growing problem in the Valley. The coroner's office said the number of homicide-suicides in Clark County has tripled since 2007.

Wednesday’s deaths mark the twelfth case this year. Is there an explanation?

“Is it concerning? Absolutely. Is it going to stop? I don't know," said Clark County Coroner Michael Murphy.

“Clearly, we don't have to do a big study to know the stress of the economy plays a role in this process," Murphy said.

"People are tremendously demoralized," said psychologist Louis Mortillaro.

Money, health and a slew of other problems contributed to these figures.

Neighbors said the wife who was killed in the latest murder-suicide had just been diagnosed with advanced cancer.

“They're finding they're unable to care for each other appropriately, stressing over their care," Murphy said.

Last month, a man killed himself after leaving a note saying he killed his wife and put her body in a freezer two years ago.

Related Link:Man Kept Wife In Freezer For 2 Years

How can this behavior be stopped before it's too late? Experts said all people can do is look for the signs and offer support.

"With most people, they will broadcast ahead of time they are depressed, have nothing to live for anymore, ‘I'd rather be dead,’" Mortillaro said.

Authorities said they hope this is their last case for 2009.

Many people wonder if someone is going to commit suicide, why would that person take someone else's life as well? For some, it's an agreement to die together. For others, it’s misery, control and giving their end "meaning" that cause them to take other’s lives.

The coroner added the majority of homicide-suicides involve firearms.