HOUSTON — A suspect in the horrific murder of a young mother of five is behind bars after surrendering to Houston police Monday night.
Cedgadrick Ardarius Harris, 24, is accused of shooting 28-year-old Kimberly Robinson and her 4-year-old daughter early on the morning of July 17.
Harris was charged with capital murder on Monday and could face the death penalty if convicted.
Police say the little girl was sleeping beside her mom in their west Houston apartment when Harris kicked the door in and shot them both.
Robinson died at the scene.
"It’s like a nightmare. It’s like a dream that I keep asking somebody to wake me up," said Janet Robinson, the victim's mother.
Family members say 4-year-old Harmony Smith was grazed in the jaw and shoulder.
Four other children, ages 12 and under, were in the apartment but weren’t hurt. A 10-year-old alerted relatives who called 911.
It happened around 4:15 a.m. in the 1800 block of Barker Cypress Road.
Relatives say Harris is Robinson’s ex-boyfriend and they call him “a monster.”
Court records show the young mother had gotten a protective order against Harris in November. Police were called out again after he allegedly violently attacked her last month.
If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, you can call the national hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or chat online at thehotline.org.
A candlelight vigil and balloon release will be held in Robinson’s honor Thursday night at 7 p.m. behind Cy Spring High School.
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