A couple was found dead in an apparent murder-suicide on Christmas night in Houston, Texas, the Houston Police Department (HPD) confirmed. While the couple was tragically lost, their three young daughters were unharmed.
The HPD reported that the incident took place at a residence on Grasilla Street, located south of Highway 90 in the city.
Officers arrived at the home around 10:15 p.m. in response to a distress call. Upon entry, they found a male and a female in an upstairs bedroom.
The woman, 34, had been hit with multiple bullets, while the man, 43, had a single gunshot wound.
While the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences has not officially released the identities of the deceased, they have been identified by family members as Roberto and Fanny Hernandez, as reported by KHOU 11.
At the time of the incident, the couple’s three daughters, ages six, nine, and 14, were present in the house. One child reported hearing an argument followed by the sound of gunfire. Fortunately, none of the children were physically targeted during the incident.
Family members arrived at the scene shortly after the tragedy and will temporarily care for the children until a more long-term solution is found, according to Lieutenant J.P. Horelica of the HPD.
The local community has reacted with shock and sadness to the incident, which took place at what was known as the family’s “happy place.”
Police have retrieved a weapon they believe to be connected to the case. The ongoing investigation has not uncovered any additional risks to public safety.
This tragic incident underscores the urgent need for increased attention to domestic and family violence in the Houston area. Local organizations such as the Houston Area Women’s Center and the Family Time Crisis Center provide 24-hour hotlines for victims of domestic violence.
