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Two Charged With Capital Murder After Houston Home Invasion Shootout Kills 72-Year-Old

Investigators are examining witness claims about a prior bail dispute.

Overview

  • Houston police say masked intruders and the homeowner exchanged gunfire during a break-in on Lockwood Drive shortly before 2 a.m. on Jan. 26.
  • Paramedics confirmed the 72-year-old victim, identified in court records as Linda Martinez, died at the scene.
  • Tajauna Thomas, 38, and Richard Mouton, 34, were arrested, remain hospitalized with gunshot wounds, and face capital murder charges, according to HPD.
  • Law-enforcement sources report the suspects entered through an unlocked backdoor, demanded jewelry, and pointed an AR-style rifle before the shootout.
  • Witnesses told police Thomas had been upset that Martinez refused to post her bail, and records show Mouton missed a court date on Jan. 23 that led to warrants.