Houston, Texas — Two suspects, Tajuana Thomas, 38, and Richard Mouton, 34, are facing capital murder charges after a violent home invasion in northeast Houston left a 72-year-old woman dead following a late-night shootout, according to the Houston Police Department.

The fatal incident occurred in the early hours of January 26, 2026, at a residence on Lockwood Drive in the Kashmere Gardens neighborhood. Authorities identified the victim as Linda Martinez, a longtime resident who was asleep inside her home when masked intruders allegedly entered through an unlocked back door.

Deadly Confrontation Inside Kashmere Gardens Home

Investigators say Martinez awoke to find the intruders demanding jewelry at gunpoint. Police reports indicate the suspects were armed with an AR-style rifle. Martinez reportedly retrieved a revolver and opened fire, striking Mouton in the face and Thomas in the hip. The suspects returned fire, fatally wounding her.

Houston Fire Department paramedics pronounced Martinez dead at the scene. Thomas and Mouton were later transported to local hospitals with non-life-threatening gunshot wounds, where their presence raised suspicions and led to their identification.

Capital Murder Charges Filed

Following a review by the Harris County District Attorney’s Office, both suspects were formally charged with capital murder, citing the killing occurred during the commission of a felony burglary. The case is assigned to the 183rd Criminal District Court.

Due to their medical conditions, neither Thomas nor Mouton has appeared in court, and both remain hospitalized under police custody.

Suspects’ Backgrounds Under Review

Authorities confirmed both suspects have prior criminal histories, which investigators say may provide context but do not determine guilt.

• Tajuana Thomas was out on bond for a misdemeanor terroristic threat charge. Court records indicate she had previously lived with Martinez after being released from jail, but tensions reportedly arose after the victim refused to post bail for her.
• Richard Mouton, a convicted felon, had multiple recent arrests involving drug possession, illegal firearms, and evading police. Records show he failed to appear in court on January 23, 2026, resulting in active warrants days before the shooting.

Possible Motive Still Under Investigation

While sources close to the investigation suggest the home invasion may have been motivated by a personal dispute, Houston police stress that no definitive motive has been confirmed. Detectives are continuing to analyze video evidence, witness statements, and forensic findings.

The case has sparked public discussion about elder vulnerability, home security, and self-defense rights under Texas law, particularly the state’s “castle doctrine,” which allows residents to use force when faced with an imminent threat inside their homes.

Community Reaction and Ongoing Investigation

Local residents have expressed shock and sympathy for Martinez, describing her as a quiet neighbor who lived alone. Police are urging anyone with information to contact the HPD Homicide Division or Crime Stoppers as the investigation remains active.

Authorities emphasize that additional charges or legal developments may follow as the case progresses through the court system.