HOUSTON — A man accused of stabbing his wife more than 100 times and chasing his daughter around with a knife in early November had a scheduled court appearance on Thursday.
Friends and family members showed up to support 49-year-old Robin Simpson a little more than two months after her death.
"She was just a wonderful person, a wonderful mother," Paulette Bray said.
The crime happened on Elberta Street in the Brookhaven neighborhood in Houston's south side shortly after 4 a.m. on Nov. 1. Michael Simpson, 58, is accused of stabbing his wife to death inside their Elberta Street home before allegedly mutilating her body. Police said he also terrorized their 8-year-old daughter who witnessed the crime.
At the time, Houston police said Robin called 911 saying Michael was in a crisis running around with a knife and threatening to kill himself. When officers arrived at the home, they spotted a little girl running toward the front door. The couple's 8-year-old daughter told them, "Daddy's stabbing mommy."
Officers found the child's parents covered in blood.
Robin died from her injuries. Michael Simpson was taken to an area hospital in critical condition for treatment. He was charged with murder and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.
The daughter was reportedly physically unharmed.
As of Jan. 11, Simpson was being held at the Harris County Jail on a $300,000 bond. Houston Crime Stoppers said they hoped his bond would be increased.
Family and friends said they're still struggling to understand what happened and don't want him to be released.
"It’s beyond comprehension," Bray said. "It’s just beyond trying to put your head together and understand."
Robin’s family in Philadelphia started an online petition to keep her accused killed locked up. Meanwhile, friends and advocates closer to home told us they plan to make sure her memory remains alive.
"I spoke to Robin that Thursday and Friday before it happened," former coworker Damaris Richards said.
They’re still in disbelief given the details of the alleged crime. It's among the worst Andy Kahan with CrimeStoppers of Houston said he’s ever seen.
"Right now, our main concern is justice for Robin," Kahan said. "That is our main and only concern."
Kahan said Simpson making bond is also a major worry for the family.
"Because they are scared out of their minds, and rightfully so," Kahan said.
Simpson died the in month she would have turned 50.Friends and family were hoping to help her celebrate.
"It's just so tragic," Bray said.
Family members also raised concerns about the police response on the night of Robin's death. Michael Simpson is due back in court next month.
Resources for victims of domestic or family violence
Domestic and family violence cases in the Houston area have increased at an alarming rate. Victims often suffer in silence because they feel scared, helpless or ashamed.
If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, here are some discreet ways to reach out for help.
The Houston Area Women’s Center has a 24-hour hotline for victims of domestic violence at 713-528-2121 or 1-800-256-0551.
The Family Time Crisis Center can also be reached 24 hours a day at 281-446-2615.
The National Domestic Violence Hotline is 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
Crisis Text Line: Text START to 88788.
