GEORGETOWN, Texas – A former judge and his wife were found dead in their home in Williamson County, Texas, leading to the arrest of their son, Seth Bryan Carnes. The 45-year-old suspect has been charged with Capital Murder and is being held without bond.
Late on the night of January 8th, a distressed woman called 911 to report that her grandfather had been shot by her father, prompting a swift response from local law enforcement. The incident occurred at a residence in the 300 block of County Road 317, just beyond the city limits of Georgetown.
Sheriff’s deputies detained Seth Carnes as he was leaving the premises, and he admitted to shooting and killing his mother and father. A subsequent search of the house uncovered the lifeless body of Alfred Carnes in the living room, along with a shotgun and a spent shell casing in the kitchen area. Susan Carnes was found upstairs in a converted garage bedroom.
Both victims were pronounced dead at the scene.
During questioning, Seth Carnes claimed he didn’t fully comprehend the events but acknowledged using a shotgun kept near his nightstand to shoot his parents. He alleged that his mother had tried to administer a sleeping pill to him, leading to his actions.
Commander John Foster of the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office expressed sympathy for the affected friends and family, particularly considering Alfred “Burt” Carnes’ esteemed position as a retired District Judge. The shocking incident has left the community reeling.
Authorities continue their investigation and have advised the public to avoid the area during the ongoing inquiry. Seth Carnes, with a family background rooted in Texas law enforcement, retired from his judgeship in 2013 after serving 24 years. The 368th District Court, where he presided, remembers his extensive tenure.
As the investigation unfolds, the motive behind this tragic act remains unknown.