The Harris County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a case after deputies discovered a woman deceased in her East Harris County garage on Wednesday night, with her son apprehended nearby holding a hammer.
Eva Peavy, 69, was found dead in her garage, and her son, Jarell Joseph, 40, was detained close to the scene with a hammer in hand. Joseph has been charged with murder and is now in Harris County Jail.
Deputies responded to a 911 call at around 9:30 p.m. at a residence on Ellesmere Drive, near Woodforest Boulevard and Normandy Street. According to authorities, the woman’s stepson returned home, discovered her unresponsive body in the garage with visible injuries, and immediately dialed 911.
Investigators reported that the caller’s stepbrother was inside the house and was seen holding a hammer. He appeared to be acting oddly and offered little communication with the caller, who maintained a safe distance until the deputies arrived.
Upon arriving, officers detained the man, who cooperated with their inquiries, while the woman was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities mentioned that the hammer might have been involved in the incident, but the medical examiner will determine the precise cause of death.
Sgt. Richie from HCSO’s Homicide Division stated that investigators are currently interviewing family members to piece together what happened, noting that at least four adults reside in the home. He also mentioned that violent crimes have been on the rise in Harris County this week, with the homicide unit responding to several incidents.