ANGLETON, Texas — A devastating tragedy has shaken the quiet community of Angleton, Texas, after an early morning shooting left two children dead and two others clinging to life. Authorities confirmed that the violence erupted inside a home on South Velasco Street shortly before 5 a.m. Saturday, sending shockwaves of grief across Brazoria County.
According to the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responding to multiple 911 calls arrived to find four young victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Two children were pronounced dead at the scene, while the surviving two were airlifted to a Houston-area trauma center in critical condition.
Officials identified the suspect as Oninda Romelus, who was detained at the scene without incident. Her relationship to the victims has not yet been fully disclosed, though investigators believe the shooting stemmed from a domestic dispute that spiraled into violence. Authorities say Romelus is cooperating with investigators, but formal charges have not yet been announced.
Neighbors described being startled awake by gunfire and sirens in the predawn hours. Many said the family was quiet and loving, making the events even harder to comprehend. “Those kids were always outside playing,” one neighbor said, her voice breaking. “It doesn’t feel real. This is beyond heartbreaking.”
Sheriff Joe King addressed the community during a Saturday press briefing, calling the case “one of the most tragic and emotionally devastating incidents our county has ever faced.” He urged the public to keep the surviving children and their family in their prayers as the investigation continues.
Local schools and community organizations are providing grief counseling for students and families, while neighbors have begun organizing vigils and donation drives to support the survivors.
As the community grapples with this unthinkable loss, officials continue to piece together the circumstances leading up to the shooting. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office at (979) 864-2392