ANGLETON, TX – Oninda Romelus, 31, has been charged with 18 felonies, including two counts of murder and two counts of aggravated assault, after she allegedly shot her four children, killing two and injuring two others, early Saturday morning in Angleton, Texas. The children’s tragic ordeal has shocked both the community and authorities, who are still working to understand the motive behind the attack.
The Incident and Arrest
The horrific events began on October 4, 2025, when Romelus, a Porter resident, drove to the Oasis gas station on SH 288 in Angleton, where she reportedly called 911. However, court documents reveal that she later claimed she didn’t call 911, but instead “called the devil.”
Brazoria County deputies rushed to the scene after receiving the call and found four children who had been shot inside a vehicle. O’Karreo Covington, a 13-year-old boy, tragically died from a gunshot wound to the head. Three-year-old Amourra Chapell also died at the scene, while 9-year-old Kylee Romelius and 8-year-old Traviel Downer suffered injuries. Both surviving children were airlifted to Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston, where they are recovering and cooperating with investigators.
Romelus’ Statements and Mental Health Concerns
When deputies questioned Romelus at the scene, she appeared alert but not making sense, according to court documents. During her interview, Romelus allegedly stated that her children were “with the devil” and added, “they’re dead” before saying, “cause you can’t take me without me taking you.”
Court documents revealed that Romelus repeatedly looked around in a paranoid manner and made several incriminating statements about the killings. When asked why she called 911, she reportedly said, “Instead of them doing it to me, I’m gonna do it to them,” and when pressed further, she replied, “kill them all.”
History with Child Protective Services
Investigators later confirmed that Romelus had previous contact with Child Protective Services (CPS), though the details of this interaction remain confidential. Melissa Lanford, a CPS spokesperson, confirmed that Romelus’ history with the agency would be included in a public Child Fatality Report once the investigation is complete.
Authorities are still working on determining who will have temporary custody of the surviving children, once they are released from the hospital.
Community Reactions and Neighbors’ Shock
Neighbors of Romelus, who had only recently moved to Porter from Georgia, expressed disbelief at the accusations. One neighbor shared that Romelus’ children often walked past their house and that they appeared happy and well-behaved. The neighbor recalled that the children even stopped by to pet their puppy just days before the incident.
“They looked like just happy kiddos. Nothing out of the ordinary at all,” the neighbor said. “Just heartbreaking to think that anything could be so bad that you have to take your children’s life. I don’t understand.”
Romelus’ Criminal Background
In addition to the murder charges, Romelus has a criminal history, including a 2022 DUI conviction in Fayette County, Georgia, for driving under the influence of drugs. She pleaded guilty to the charges after officers found small amounts of marijuana in her vehicle during a stop.
Ongoing Investigation and Law Enforcement Response
The investigation into the shooting is still ongoing. Sheriff Bo Stallman of Brazoria County described the situation as a “senseless tragedy”, expressing his shock at the violence. He has requested prayers for the surviving children and first responders involved in the case.
“We’re doing everything we can to seek justice for these children,” Sheriff Stallman said.
Law enforcement has also searched Romelus’ home in Porter, with assistance from the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, although no details have been released regarding what, if anything, was found during the search.
Call to Action
This heartbreaking incident raises many questions about the role of mental health, safety, and support systems in preventing such tragedies. What are your thoughts on this case? Share your comments below and discuss the broader issues surrounding parental responsibility, mental health, and the protection of children.
