RICHMOND, TX – A Texas man turned deadly shooter killed his estranged wife, niece, and extended family members before turning the gun on himself in a horrifying murder-suicide over the weekend in Richmond, suburban Houston, according to the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office.
The shooter, identified as 46-year-old Alrick “Shawn” Barrett, carried out the tragic incident on Saturday morning. Fort Bend County Sheriff Eric Fagan stated at a news conference that Barrett had arrived at the home to return his minor child following a visit. After getting into the home, Barrett proposed reconciliation to his estranged wife, whose refusal reportedly triggered the violent shooting spree.
The shocking incident came to light when a 13-year-old boy, said to be Barrett’s nephew, called the authorities from the home. The teenager, alongside Barrett’s 7-year-old child, was able to hide and escape the deadly shooting.
According to Sheriff Fagan, Barrett shot and killed his 44-year-old estranged wife, her 43-year-old brother, 46-year-old sister, and his 8-year-old niece. In respecting the privacy of the deceased, officials have withheld their identities.
The Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office noted some of the relatives lived in the home, while others were visiting. It was also revealed that in January of the previous year, the authorities responded to a verbal disturbance call involving Barrett and his estranged wife. Further investigation into Barrett’s background is ongoing.
Details about the weapon used in the fatal shootings are currently unavailable due to the ongoing status of the investigation.