Texas Mother Charged with Capital Murder in Deaths of Two Sons

A Texas mother is facing capital murder charges after allegedly shooting her two sons before appearing to harm herself, authorities said.

Colleen Nichole Lemmon, 42, was taken into custody and charged with two counts of capital murder, according to the Ellis County Sheriff's Office. Deputies responded to a call about an "unknown emergency" early Thursday morning at a residence on Big Sky Drive in Waxahachie. Upon arrival, deputies discovered two male victims with gunshot wounds inside the home.

One victim, identified as 21-year-old Christopher Scott Pitre, was pronounced dead at the scene. The second victim, a 15-year-old boy, was transported to a hospital in critical condition, where he later died.

Deputies also found Lemmon at the scene suffering from non-life-threatening injuries. An arrest affidavit states that evidence recovered during the investigation gave law enforcement probable cause to believe Lemmon was responsible for shooting both her sons. She allegedly told officers, "I shot both my kids."

Lemmon was arrested and transported to a local hospital for treatment. She is being held on a $2.5 million bond.

The victims' father told NBC 5 that his younger son had recently celebrated his 15th birthday and expressed a desire for justice for his sons. Neighbors described the killings as "heartbreaking."

Sheriff Brad Norman offered his condolences to the family, stating, "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."