On Christmas night, according to the Houston Police Department (HPD), an apparent murder-suicide claimed the lives of a couple, leaving behind three young daughters. None of the children were physically harmed.
The incident occurred at a home on Grasilla Street, south of Highway 90 in Houston.
At around 10:15 p.m., police responded to a call at the home. Upon arrival, they discovered a man and woman in an upstairs bedroom.
The woman, aged 34, had sustained multiple gunshot wounds, while the 43-year-old man suffered a single gunshot wound.
The Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences has yet to publicly confirm their identities. However, the family of the deceased victims has identified the couple as Roberto and Fanny Hernandez, as reported by KHOU 11.
The couple’s three daughters, aged six, nine, and 14, were in the house at the time of the shooting. One of the children recounted hearing arguments followed by several gunshots. Thankfully, none of the children were targeted.
Lieutenant J.P. Horelica indicated that family members who arrived at the scene shortly after the incident would temporarily care for the girls until a more permanent arrangement is established.
Neighbors expressed their disbelief and sorrow over the incident, which occurred in what was considered the family’s “happy place.”
The police have recovered what they believe to be the murder weapon. The ongoing investigation has not indicated any further threat to the public.
The incident has highlighted the increasing concern over domestic and family violence in the Houston area. Local resources such as the Houston Area Women’s Center and the Family Time Crisis Center offer 24-hour hotlines for victims of domestic violence.
