Texas mother facing capital murder charges after allegedly shooting her two sons to death
Mother Charged with Capital Murder After Alleged Double Shooting of Her Sons in Waxahachie
Waxahachie, Texas – A 42‑year‑old mother was arrested on Thursday morning after authorities said she shot both of her sons inside their home on Big Sky Drive. Colleen Nichole Lemmon faces two counts of capital murder, the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office confirmed.
The sheriff’s office received a 911 call about an “unknown emergency” just before 4:15 a.m. Thursday. Deputies arrived at the residence on Big Sky Drive and found a 21‑year‑old man, Christopher Scott Pitre, deceased at the scene. A 15‑year‑old boy was transported to a local hospital in critical condition, but he later died from his injuries. Police recovered a handgun at the scene and found Lemmon covered in blood with what appeared to be self‑inflicted lacerations on her wrists.
“I shot both my kids,” Lemmon reportedly told officers before she was taken into custody. The evidence recovered during the investigation gave law enforcement probable cause to believe she was responsible for the shootings.
Deputy investigators also found the handgun used in the incident nearby, and a review of the crime scene indicated that the children’s deaths were a result of gunshot wounds. Lemmon was transported to a hospital for treatment of her injuries and was subsequently booked on a $2.5 million bond.
The Ellis County Sheriff’s Office said it was “deeply saddened” by the tragedy. Sheriff Brad Norman released a statement that read: “My deepest sympathies go out to the victims’ father, family members, and loved ones involved in this tragic incident. They will remain in our prayers during this difficult time.”
The victims’ father, Scott Pitre, told local news outlets that his younger son had recently celebrated his 15th birthday. “I want justice for my sons,” he said, expressing his grief and determination to see the case through.
Neighbors were also shaken by the events. Ida Brown, who lives across the street from the Lemmon household, said, “It’s heartbreaking, and I’m praying for them.” Brown added that the community is still reeling from the sudden loss.
Law enforcement officials have not released a full timeline of how the incident unfolded, but investigators are examining the possibility of a domestic dispute or other underlying factors. At this time, no witnesses have come forward, and the case remains in the early stages of investigation.
The charges of capital murder carry the potential for life imprisonment or the death penalty in Texas. The court is scheduled to set a hearing for Lemmon’s initial appearance later this week. Her defense team has not yet released a statement.
The case has drawn attention to the tragic reality of sudden family loss and has spurred conversations among residents about domestic violence and mental health support in the Waxahachie area. Local community leaders have urged residents to be vigilant for warning signs and to seek help if they or someone they know may be in crisis.
The Ellis County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to a thorough investigation and will update the public as additional information becomes available.
