HOUSTON, TX — A devastating tragedy unfolded in west Houston Monday evening after police discovered a man and woman dead inside their apartment in what investigators believe was a murder-suicide. The discovery came after the couple’s three young children—just 3, 2, and 1 years old—were found wandering the complex, reportedly searching for food.

According to the Houston Police Department (HPD), officers were dispatched around 5:00 p.m. to an apartment complex located on the 10900 block of Meadowglen Lane, near the intersection of Westheimer Road and Wilcrest Drive. Residents had reported seeing the children alone outside, which raised immediate concern.

When officers arrived, they found the toddlers—confused, hungry, and frightened—who told police that their parents were inside the apartment and not waking up. After making entry, officers discovered the bodies of a man and woman. While their identities have not yet been released, HPD Lt. Larry Crowson confirmed early evidence points to a murder-suicide, with the man believed to have killed the woman before taking his own life.

Crowson said investigators believe the couple had been dead for nearly 24 hours before being discovered, meaning the children may have been left without food or care for an entire day. The children were taken in temporarily by a neighbor before being placed under the supervision of Child Protective Services (CPS). Officials said CPS is now working to determine the most suitable and stable arrangements for the children’s long-term care.

Police have not disclosed the method of death, citing the ongoing investigation, but said there were no immediate signs of forced entry or involvement of outside parties. The scene was described as particularly difficult for first responders, many of whom are also parents themselves.

“This is a heartbreaking case,” Lt. Crowson told local media. “Anytime children are left in this situation, it affects everyone involved—officers, neighbors, the entire community.”

The incident has left residents of the Meadowglen complex shaken. Neighbors described the family as relatively private but said the children were often seen playing near the courtyard. Some residents gathered outside as investigators worked inside the apartment, visibly emotional at the thought of three young children losing both parents so suddenly.

Community advocates and child welfare experts emphasized that the case underscores the importance of mental health awareness, domestic violence intervention, and accessible family support systems. “When tragedies like this happen, the ripple effects extend far beyond one household,” a local counselor noted. “We have children, neighbors, and an entire community grappling with trauma.”

Authorities stressed that resources are available for those struggling with relationship violence or suicidal thoughts. They urged community members to reach out for help rather than suffer in silence.

• If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.

• For mental health crises or suicidal thoughts, dial 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7.

As of Tuesday, the investigation remains ongoing, and the Harris County Medical Examiner’s Office is expected to confirm the official causes of death. Funeral arrangements and the long-term welfare plans for the children have not yet been announced.

This tragedy, police said, serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of life and the urgent need for community vigilance in supporting families facing hidden struggles.