Houston, Texas – Authorities in Houston are investigating the tragic death of a woman found shot and deceased in her home on Verde Trails Drive. The victim, identified as 52-year-old Anna Iris Melendez, was discovered Sunday morning with multiple gunshot wounds.
Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez stated that deputies initially received a call about a person in distress at the residence on Saturday night, along with reports of possible gunshots in the area. However, deputies did not find anything unusual upon arrival and left the scene.
Hours later, another call was made regarding an alarm at the location, prompting deputies to return. This time, they noticed the garage door was open, raising suspicions. Gonzalez mentioned that upon further investigation, deputies found signs of a possible disturbance inside the house.
The following morning, deputies made a grim discovery when they forced entry into the home and found Melendez deceased from apparent gunshot wounds. The investigation led to the arrest of Melendez’s son, 27-year-old Christopher Melendez, who was captured by Houston police after fleeing on a traffic-related offense.
Neighbors described the victim as a kind and peaceful woman, recalling interactions with her in passing. The tragic incident adds to a series of unfortunate events that occurred over the Easter weekend in Harris County, according to Gonzalez.
Christopher Melendez has been booked into the Harris County Jail in connection with his mother’s death. The community mourns the loss of Melendez and the string of tragedies that have marred the recent days. Authorities continue to piece together the events leading up to the fatal shooting as the investigation unfolds.