Two found dead in suspected double homicide at Kopervik supported housing

Two people were found dead in separate units at the Pilehagen supported housing complex in Kopervik on Saturday, with two men in their 30s now charged in connection with the killings, Dagbladet reports.

The victims—a man in his 60s and a woman in her 50s—were discovered in two different residential units at the municipally run facility. Police confirmed both suspects have current or past ties to the housing complex, with one reportedly still residing there.

Neighbours describe the area as troubled, citing frequent police callouts, theft, disturbances, and what they call a lack of overnight supervision. “After 10 p.m., it’s open season,” one resident told Dagbladet, adding that vulnerable groups like children and the elderly in the area often feel unsafe. The housing units, intended for individuals with substance abuse or mental health challenges, are officially staffed only until 10 p.m., though Karmøy municipality claims overnight coverage exists—with staff sometimes called away for other tasks.

Karmøy’s municipal health director, Nora Olsen-Sund, acknowledged the incident had prompted a staffing increase but maintained that Pilehagen’s risk level was “no higher than elsewhere.” She noted past isolated incidents but said they were not unusual compared to similar facilities. The complex, expanded in 2024 with new units designed to address “challenging behaviour,” has faced criticism over insufficient support for residents.

Mayor Leiv Arne Marhaug (Conservative Party) called the killings a “tragedy” but said he had not previously received reports of widespread concern from neighbours. He praised police for their response, stating he had “no impression” of ongoing issues at Pilehagen before the attack.