Police in Odessa, Texas, say a 15-year-old boy is in custody after allegedly killing his ex-girlfriend’s mother and two younger siblings in what authorities describe as a tragic act of violence that has shaken the community. The teen suspect, whose name is being withheld due to his age, is accused of entering the family’s home and fatally shooting three victims before fleeing on foot.
According to Odessa Police Chief Mike Gerke, the teen had originally planned to shoot his 15-year-old ex-girlfriend outside of her school. However, investigators say he “changed his mind” and instead went to the residence on Hunter Miller Way on Tuesday. The chief described the killings as “tragic” and “cowardly,” noting that the violence was especially painful given the holiday season.
Police say the suspect barged into the home armed with a handgun. Inside, he allegedly shot Jessica Rodriguez, 39, along with her two children—her 9-year-old son and 13-year-old daughter. All three victims were pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities reported that the teen’s ex-girlfriend was not injured, and it remains unclear whether she was present during the attack.
The Odessa Police Department released a statement on social media outlining the alleged sequence of events, including the teen’s initial plan to target his ex-girlfriend before redirecting his intent toward her family members. Officers responded quickly, and the suspect was apprehended approximately 40 minutes after the shootings.
Chief Gerke emphasized that investigators are still working to determine how the teen obtained the firearm used in the attack. “We know what he told us, how he got the gun, but we don’t necessarily believe everything that he tells us about that,” Gerke told reporters during a media briefing. Police have not released further details regarding the gun’s origin or whether additional individuals may be questioned.
The triple homicide has left the neighborhood and broader Odessa community grieving. Authorities and local leaders say the incident highlights ongoing concerns about youth access to firearms, domestic disputes involving minors, and the growing frequency of violent acts committed by juveniles.
As the investigation continues, police are reviewing evidence from the home and interviewing individuals connected to both families. No additional suspects are being sought at this time. Authorities have not yet announced what charges the teen will face, though he is expected to be processed through the juvenile justice system pending decisions by prosecutors.
Chief Gerke acknowledged the deep impact the deaths have had on local residents. “It’s the kind of thing that really marks a community,” he said. “Particularly in this holiday season, it’s a hurtful, horrible thing.”
Counselors and victim support services have been made available to the family’s surviving members and to community members affected by the tragedy. Odessa police say more information will be released as the investigation progresses.
