The family of Ana Iris Melendez, 52, who was allegedly murdered by her son, is questioning the response of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office to her 911 call.
According to investigators, Ana Melendez made a distress call to 911 herself on Saturday night, during which gunshots were heard. However, it took approximately 11 hours before her body was discovered.
Her daughter, Iris Melendez, expressed the family’s frustration with the handling of the situation, stating that Ana was a devoted mother and grandmother who attended church regularly and cared deeply for her family.
Christopher Melendez, Ana’s son, is accused of shooting her at their home in north Harris County. Initially, deputies faced difficulties locating the exact address following the 911 call.
Sheriff Ed Gonzalez explained that despite efforts to locate the residence, including speaking with neighbors and conducting a property search, deputies were unable to pinpoint the exact location initially.
Subsequently, an alarm call was received by the department, but it was three hours before deputies responded. Upon arrival, they observed an open garage door and Ana’s car missing.
Despite growing concerns, Ana’s body was not discovered until 9 a.m. on Sunday.
In response to the incident, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office stated that they are reviewing all aspects of the investigation.
Christopher Melendez was apprehended by Houston police early Sunday morning after a pursuit stemming from a traffic violation. Initially charged with DWI, evading arrest, and unlawful carry of a weapon, he was later also charged with murder.
During a hearing, the 911 call was mentioned, alleging that Christopher shot his mother while she pleaded for her life, prompting the hearing officer to set his bond at $300,000.
