Bexar County authorities are investigating the tragic deaths of a 58-year-old couple, discovered by their adult daughter on Saturday night in what is being treated as a suspected murder-suicide. Preliminary investigations indicate a history of domestic disputes between the couple, including a recent misdemeanor domestic violence case that was dismissed due to the absence of a witness.
Deputies responded to the incident at approximately 8:24 p.m. in the 15000 block of Escalante Pass in Von Ormy after the daughter, concerned about her parents’ well-being, went to check on them. Upon entering their home, she found both her mother and father deceased. Preliminary findings suggest that the woman suffered multiple gunshot wounds, while the man appears to have died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. A handgun was recovered from the scene, although investigators have not yet confirmed its caliber.
Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar reported that the official causes and manners of death will be determined following autopsies conducted by the local medical examiner’s office. He emphasized the growing crisis of domestic violence in the area, noting that half of the county’s ten homicides this year are linked to such incidents.
Records show that the couple had previously engaged in domestic disputes, with a misdemeanor case filed within the last two years that was ultimately dismissed when a witness could not be located. During a recent press briefing, Sheriff Salazar underscored the persistent nature of domestic violence, stating, “Domestic violence abusers just don’t stop beating up victims. The only way that domestic violence usually ends is if somebody leaves that situation, or unfortunately, many times we’ve seen them escalate to the point where it’s a homicide case.”
So far this year, Bexar County has reported ten homicides, with five connected to domestic violence. In comparison, the previous year saw a total of fifteen homicides, nine of which were attributed to domestic abuse.
In light of these events, Sheriff Salazar urged individuals in abusive situations to seek help before violence escalates further. He highlighted the resources available through the sheriff’s office for victims of domestic violence, encouraging them to reach out for assistance by calling 210-335-6000.
