Texas man charged with capital murder of mother and grandmother
The metal handcuffs on black background. Handcuff or shackle. Police handcuffs.

Texas Man Charged with Capital Murder of Mother and Grandmother

December 21, 2023

TEXAS — Louis Lamar Simpson, Jr., 26, has been charged with two counts of capital murder in the deaths of his mother, Tina McGruder, 53, and grandmother, Deanne McGruder, 75. The incident took place in Killeen, Texas, earlier this month, leading to Simpson’s arrest and potential life imprisonment.

Killeen Police Department responded to a 911 call around 1:34 p.m. on December 8, reporting a domestic disturbance at a residence in the 2300 block of Basalt Drive. Upon arrival, officers encountered Simpson leaving the house. Inside, they found both victims with gunshot wounds. Tina McGruder, critically injured and barely able to speak, identified her son as the shooter when asked by officers.

The probable cause affidavit, as reported by the Killeen Daily Herald, described Simpson as nervous and in possession of a firearm at the time of his detention. His subsequent statements to police indicated that he did not intend to kill his mother and grandmother, noting that he didn’t aim for their heads.

This tragic case highlights the severe consequences of domestic disturbances escalating to violence. The community is left grappling with the aftermath of this event, as the legal process continues to address the seriousness of the charges against Simpson.

Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News