A woman in Texas was arrested after she allegedly shot and killed her two sons at their family’s home in the middle of the night.
The Ellis County Sheriff’s Office confirmed in a news release that Colleen Nichole Lemmon has been charged with two counts of capital murder following the deaths of her 21-year-old son, Christopher Scott Pitre, and her 15-year-old son, whose name has not been released.
The investigation into the shootings began around 4:15 a.m. on Thursday, October 1, when deputies received a report of “an unknown emergency” at the home in Waxahachie, Texas, according to the sheriff’s office.
Once they arrived at the family’s home, authorities found both victims suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.
The younger boy was rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition, while Pitre was pronounced dead at the scene. The younger brother later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.
Lemmon, 42, was at the home when deputies arrived. The sheriff’s office said that she was reportedly found with non-life-threatening injuries, and she was taken to a hospital for treatment before being booked on preliminary charges.
After launching an investigation into the incident, detectives determined that there was probable cause based on “corroborating evidence” that Lemmon was responsible for shooting both of the victims.
Authorities have not shared any details about what led up to the shooting or if Lemmon had a motive for allegedly killing her sons.
The sheriff’s office also noted that the father of the two victims had been notified of their deaths following the tragedy.
“My deepest sympathies go out to the victims’ father, family members, and loved ones involved in this tragic incident,” Ellis County Sheriff Brad Norman said in a statement about the incident. “They will remain in our prayers during this difficult time.”
Lemmon is currently in custody at the Ellis County Jail, and her bond will be determined during her upcoming arraignment hearing.
It’s not currently clear if Lemmon has entered a plea or retained legal counsel following her arrest. The Ellis County Sheriff’s Office did not immediately respond to Us’ request for comment regarding updates in the case.
The investigation into the case remains ongoing.
If Lemmon is found guilty of capital murder, she could be potentially sentenced to the death penalty or life imprisonment without the possibility of parole, according to Texas law.
