Crosby, Texas — A shocking murder case near Houston has left a family grieving after authorities say a 55-year-old woman fatally shot a 21-year-old woman she had been temporarily living with just days after reportedly telling police she was “seeing demons.”
The deadly incident unfolded at a residence in Crosby, where investigators later discovered the young victim dead inside the home.
Young Woman Found Dead Inside Texas Home
According to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a residence in the 17800 block of Adlong Johnson Road near US 90 on Monday after reports of a shooting.
When authorities arrived, they found 21-year-old Maysie Murphy dead at the scene.
Investigators say Courtney Smith, 55, later admitted to shooting Murphy as well as Murphy’s alleged boyfriend.
However, authorities stated that no second victim’s body was located at the property despite Smith’s claims.
The disturbing allegations immediately launched a homicide investigation as detectives worked to piece together what led up to the deadly shooting.
Suspect Allegedly Claimed She Was “Seeing Demons”
The case took an even more disturbing turn after reports revealed Smith had contacted law enforcement the day before the shooting.
According to reports, Smith called dispatchers and allegedly stated that she was “seeing demons.”
Investigators believe both Smith and Murphy had been temporarily staying at the residence while the homeowners were away from town.
Authorities also confirmed that Murphy and Smith were not related, despite Smith allegedly telling officers she had shot her granddaughter.
Police later clarified that Murphy was actually a friend of the homeowners and had no blood relation to the suspect.
Family Remembers Victim as Loving and Outgoing
As news of Murphy’s death spread, devastated family members shared emotional tributes describing the young woman as someone deeply loved by everyone around her.
Murphy’s father told reporters that she was “loved by anybody who’s ever come in contact with her.”
“You could never tell what she was going to do or wear next,” the grieving father said.
“I called her our little hippy. The world is definitely a darker place without her. Taken from us so early. The hole and hurt are felt by so many; may our daughter rest easy.”
Her mother also spoke about the impact Murphy had on those around her and the strong bond she shared with her siblings.
“She would light up any room she walked into. To know her is to love her. Genuine, kind, outgoing and had so many goals in life,” she said.
The emotional statements painted a heartbreaking picture of a young woman whose life was cut tragically short.
Murder Charge Filed Against Suspect
Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez confirmed that Smith was formally charged with murder following the investigation.
Authorities said she was booked into the Harris County Jail and is expected to appear back in court on Thursday.
Investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the shooting and whether additional mental health concerns may have played a role in the incident.
Officials are also encouraging anyone with additional information about the case to contact the Harris County Sheriff’s Office or Crime Stoppers.
The tragic case has shocked the local community and left loved ones searching for answers after a young life ended in such a violent way.
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