A devastating shooting unfolded in Oklahoma City on Wednesday night. A mother and her three children were shot and killed by the woman’s ex-husband, who then turned the gun on himself. The victims have been identified as Cassie Flores, 29, and her children Hillary, 9, Damaris, 5, and Matis, 2. The shocking incident occurred at their home. Police also confirmed that they were not called to the residence for any domestic disturbances prior to responding to the fatal shooting.
Ruben Armendariz, 28, allegedly targeted Flores before shooting their three children and ultimately taking his own life. Emergency services arrived at the scene of the crime and found five individuals shot. One of the children was rushed to the hospital but ultimately succumbed to their injuries. The woman and her two other children were pronounced dead at the scene. The man who shot them was taken to the hospital with a gunshot wound to the head, but he also passed away from his self-inflicted injury.
The couple had previously been married but had separated, although it remains unclear whether Armendariz was living with his estranged wife and children at the time of the incident. Police are still investigating the motive behind this horrific act.
The devastating loss has prompted an outpouring of tributes for the mother and her three children. Flores’ family described the situation as a “nightmare.” Her sister, Rocio, expressed her disbelief and heartache on social media. She shared pictures of her loved ones, lamenting the fact that she didn’t have the chance to say goodbye.
Armendariz’s only known previous encounter with the law was a traffic violation in 2020. Sgt. Gary Knight acknowledged the difficulty in comprehending the events leading up to the tragedy, emphasizing that no one seemed to have foreseen the violence. The Western Heights School District, where the victims may have attended, has made counselors available to support students and staff during this difficult time.