ANGLETON, TEXAS — Authorities are investigating a tragic shooting in Brazoria County, Texas, that left two children dead and two others critically injured on the morning of Saturday, October 5, 2025. The shooting has sent shockwaves through the community as Oninda Romelus, the mother of the children involved, was arrested in connection with the fatal incident.

Details of the Incident

According to the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO), deputies were called to a gas station located on State Highway 288B near FM 521 at approximately 5:00 a.m. after receiving reports of a shooting involving multiple victims. When deputies arrived on the scene, they found a vehicle containing four children, all suffering from gunshot wounds.

Initial investigations suggest that the shooting did not occur at the gas station itself. Efforts are currently underway to determine the exact location and time of the incident, as well as what led to the tragic events.

Victims Identified

Authorities confirmed that a 13-year-old child and a 4-year-old child were pronounced dead at the scene. The tragic loss of these two young lives has left their family and the community in deep mourning. The other two victims, an 8-year-old and a 9-year-old, were airlifted to a nearby trauma center in critical condition. As of the latest update, both surviving children are expected to recover, though they remain under medical care for their injuries.

The identity of the victims has not been officially released to the public, pending notification of their families. However, the community’s support for the grieving family has been overwhelming.

Investigation Underway

As law enforcement continues its investigation, BCSO has confirmed that all individuals believed to be involved in the shooting have been detained. Authorities have also reassured the public that there is no ongoing threat. The incident has deeply affected the Brazoria County community, with residents coming together to offer support to the victims’ families.

In an official statement, the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office expressed its sorrow: “All individuals believed to be involved have been detained, and there is no ongoing threat to the community. While the details are still developing, the loss of two children in such a manner is a tragedy. Our thoughts are with the family and everyone affected as we continue to learn more about this heartbreaking situation.”

Mother of Victims Arrested

The suspect arrested in connection with the shooting has been identified as Oninda Romelus, the mother of the four children involved. Investigators confirmed that Romelus was taken into custody without incident, and she remains in custody as the investigation continues. Authorities have not yet disclosed further details about the role Romelus may have played in the incident, and the investigation is ongoing.

Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office is assisting in the investigation, with a focus on a residence in Montgomery County that is believed to be connected to the crime scene. Investigators are piecing together the details to determine the motive and the sequence of events leading up to the shooting.

Community Support and Grief

The tragedy has sparked an outpouring of support from the Angleton community and surrounding areas. Neighbors, friends, and even strangers have expressed their sorrow for the family, offering prayers and condolences. The emotional toll of losing two children in such a horrific manner has devastated the Brazoria County community, which has rallied to provide emotional and financial support to the grieving family.

The local churches and community organizations are also providing assistance, helping the family through this unimaginable loss. There are ongoing efforts to ensure that the surviving children receive the necessary medical care and psychological support as they recover from the physical and emotional scars of the incident.

Authorities Appeal for Information

The Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office has asked the public for assistance in the ongoing investigation. Detectives are looking for any witnesses who may have seen anything related to the shooting or may have information that could help further the investigation. Community members who were in the area at the time of the shooting, especially between 5:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m., are encouraged to contact law enforcement with any tips or information they may have.

The sheriff’s office is also urging anyone who has information about the events leading up to the shooting to come forward and assist the investigation. Those with dashcam footage, surveillance footage, or any relevant details are encouraged to contact the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAK-UP.

Funeral Arrangements and Continued Support

As of now, funeral arrangements for the two deceased children are being finalized by their family. In the coming days, services will be held to honor their lives, and the community is expected to gather to pay their respects. The surviving children will also receive ongoing support as they recover physically and emotionally from this traumatic experience.

While the Brazoria County community continues to grieve the tragic loss, they have also come together to ensure that the family has the support they need during this devastating time. Donations, prayers, and fundraisers are underway to help the family with funeral costs and medical expenses for the two surviving children.

Conclusion: A Heartbreaking Tragedy

The shooting in Angleton has left a community reeling from the devastating loss of two young lives and the critical injuries sustained by two others. While Oninda Romelus has been arrested in connection with the shooting, questions remain about what led to the tragic events. As the investigation continues, authorities are focused on understanding the full circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking incident.

The tragedy serves as a painful reminder of the devastating effects of domestic violence and the importance of addressing underlying issues before they escalate into violence. The Angleton community continues to surround the Dawson family with love, and local leaders are committed to providing the support needed to help the family heal and recover from this incomprehensible loss.

As the investigation progresses, the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office has pledged to keep the public informed of any new developments. The Dawson family remains in the thoughts of all those affected, and the community will continue to mourn and honor the lives of Stetson Ray Dawson and his 4-year-old sibling. The legacy of these young lives will live on in the hearts of their family and the Lepanto community.