The Lamar Consolidated Independent School District (CISD) in Texas suffered the loss of two of its elementary school teachers dead in their home during the recent spring break.
Gene Mark Hudgson Sjogreen Jr., 34, and Mariana Alba Garcia, 34, both educators within the district, were found deceased in their residence on Monday, March 11. The discovery was made during a welfare check conducted by deputies from the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office in Richmond, Texas, a peaceful neighborhood located around 30 miles southwest of downtown Houston.
The welfare check was initiated after Garcia’s father visited the married couple’s home due to not hearing from them since the previous Friday. After spotting signs of a possible altercation through a rear window, he contacted local law enforcement.
The couple, both respected figures within their community, were employed as teachers at Taylor Ray Elementary School and Jane Long Elementary School, instructing third and fourth-grade students respectively.
The incident is currently being investigated as a murder-suicide by authorities, with preliminary reports suggesting that Sjogreen used a firearm to kill Garcia before turning the weapon on himself. The community, known for its tranquility, has been left in shock by the incident, with neighbors expressing surprise due to the lack of any apparent warning signs at the couple’s residence.
The Lamar Consolidated Independent School District issued a statement following the incident, acknowledging the significant impact both Sjogreen and Garcia had on their students and fellow staff members. The statement highlighted the district’s commitment to offering support to all those affected, through counseling services and other means of assistance.
Reports indicate that counseling support has been made readily available for students, staff, and family members grappling with the tragic event. Garcia, recently named as a staff member of the month, is remembered for her unwavering dedication to her students and her passion for education.
Investigators continue to work on the case, attempting to reconstruct the events leading up to the tragic incident.
