Texas Teen Accused of Killing Ex-Girlfriend’s Mother and Siblings After Breakup, Police Say
TEXAS — A 15-year-old boy has been arrested and charged with capital murder after police say he fatally shot his ex-girlfriend’s mother and two younger siblings inside their North Odessa apartment Tuesday evening. The incident has devastated the Rodriguez family, who are now planning three funerals just days before Christmas.
Triple Homicide Uncovered at North Odessa Apartment
According to the Odessa Police Department, officers responded around 5:45 p.m. to a report of gunfire at the 87th Street Apartments on Hunter Miller Way. When they entered one of the units, they found three victims:
- 39-year-old Jessica Rodriguez
- Her 9-year-old son
- Her 13-year-old daughter
All three had been fatally shot.
Investigators say the teen suspect—whose identity remains withheld due to his age—previously dated Rodriguez’s 15-year-old daughter. Police believe he originally planned to confront the girl outside her school, but instead went to her home and attacked her family.
Suspect Detained 40 Minutes After the Shooting
Authorities say the teen fled the scene on foot but was detained at 6:26 p.m., less than an hour later, along Andrews Highway. He was transported to the Ector County Youth Center.
Police recovered a handgun believed to be used in the killings and are working to determine how the teen obtained it and whether anyone else helped facilitate his plan.
Investigators emphasized that the incident does not appear to be gang-related.
Former Girlfriend Physically Unharmed but Traumatized
Odessa Police Chief Michael Gerke confirmed that the suspect’s former girlfriend was not physically injured during the attack. However, officials say she is now coping with significant emotional trauma after the loss of her mother and siblings.
“Physically she was unharmed, but saying she’s ‘OK’ would be a misnomer after what happened to her family,” Gerke said.
Police also confirmed the suspect had at least one prior encounter with law enforcement, though nothing indicating a violent threat.
Teen Could Be Tried as an Adult
Prosecutors will determine whether the suspect will face charges as an adult, which would allow his name and additional information to be released publicly.
Authorities also warn that anyone who helped the teen obtain the firearm or knew about the alleged plan could face charges.
Community Heartbroken Ahead of the Holidays
The Rodriguez family—who should have been preparing for the holidays—are instead facing an unimaginable tragedy.
Police, counselors, and community members are rallying around surviving relatives as the investigation continues.
NapervilleLocal.com will provide updates as more information becomes available.
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