HARRIS COUNTY, Texas — Deputies are investigating what appears to be a murder-suicide involving two brothers in north Harris County early Monday morning, according to Sheriff Ed Gonzalez.
The sheriff said one of the brothers, age 22, who suffers from mental health issues, shot his older brother, 24, who has autism, before turning the gun on himself.
Investigators said the two brothers lived at the apartment on Ella Boulevard near West Airtex Boulevard with their mother.
She was asleep and heard a commotion in their room. The mother broke down the door and found both her sons dead, investigators said.
The mother was briefly hospitalized due to a panic attack, deputies said.
Investigators said deputies had responded to the scene before for disturbances and mental health incidents.
This week marks Mental Illness Awareness Week with Mental Health Awareness Day on Oct. 10. Experts say the incident may prompt conversations around the topic, but it's important to dispel misconceptions.
"Those that may struggle with mental health disorders are not technically violent individuals," Dr. Glenda Demas, a licensed professional counselor told KHOU 11.
Demas said opening up a conversation about mental health can help prepare families before a crisis occurs.
"Most individuals that struggle with their mental health often feel alone, so supporting them by providing them with a trusted mental health professional and letting them know that they're not alone are great ways that you can let your loved one know that you're supported," Demas said in an interview.
Demas said raising awareness about the issue can save lives.
"I don't think that we should just have a week set aside, you know, to talk about the importance of mental health support and raising awareness," Demas said. "I think that this should be a year-round, daily conversation.
Resources for suicide prevention
Suicide prevention starts with recognizing the warning signs of suicide and taking them seriously. Talking openly about suicidal thoughts and feelings can save a life.
If you or anyone you know is in need of help, you can contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or 800-273-TALK (8255). You can also text the lifeline at 741741 or chat online here.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the United States.
You can also reach out to UT Physicians here.