A tragic event unfolded on Christmas night in Houston, Texas, as reported by the Houston Police Department (HPD). An apparent murder-suicide took the lives of a husband and wife, leaving their three young daughters parentless. Fortunately, the children were not physically injured during the event.

The deadly incident transpired at a residence on Grasilla Street, situated south of Highway 90 in Houston.

The police received a call from the residence around 10:15 p.m., and upon their arrival, they discovered the bodies of a man and woman in an upstairs bedroom.

The woman, 34, had been struck by multiple bullets, while the man, 43, had a single gunshot wound, according to initial findings. The identities of the deceased have not been officially confirmed by the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences.

However, the family of the victims has identified the couple as Roberto and Fanny Hernandez, as reported by KHOU 11.

At the time of the shooting, the couple’s three daughters, aged six, nine, and 14, were present in the house. One of the children reported hearing arguments followed by gunshots. None of the children were directly targeted during the incident.

Lieutenant J.P. Horelica stated that family members arrived at the scene shortly after the incident and will temporarily care for the girls until a stable arrangement is established.

The neighbors voiced their shock and sadness over the incident, which took place in what was thought to be a safe and peaceful family home.

Police have retrieved what they believe to be the weapon used in the murder. The ongoing investigation has not raised any additional public safety concerns.

The incident underscores the growing issue of domestic and family violence in the Houston area. Local organizations including the Houston Area Women’s Center and the Family Time Crisis Center provide 24-hour hotlines for victims of domestic violence.