A 24-year-old man from Texas has been taken into custody and is facing murder charges after his mother, a child psychiatrist, was found fatally stabbed at their home. The incident occurred on Thursday evening, prompting a swift response from the Lubbock Police Department. The suspect, identified as Peter Lawrence Martinelli, attempted to flee the scene. The motive behind his deadly attack remains unclear.
Authorities received a domestic disturbance call at approximately 7:08 p.m. on Thursday, prompting officers to rush to a residence in the 4500 block of 20th Street in Lubbock. Upon arrival, they discovered 63-year-old Dr. Brigitte Curtis in the backyard of the property, suffering from multiple stab wounds. Despite the efforts of emergency medical services, Curtis was pronounced dead at the scene. Martinelli, the prime suspect, was spotted in the driveway and attempted to flee on foot upon hearing the approaching sirens. However, law enforcement swiftly apprehended him.
A witnesses who dialed 911 reported seeing Martinelli standing over Curtis’ body, moving it towards the rear of the house. The victim had sustained a large gash on her neck. Witnesses further described the attack, stating that Martinelli used overhead strikes against his mother, who fell to the ground. Shockingly, the suspect then knelt over her and continued the assault. Another witness observed Martinelli spraying water on Curtis with a hose after the attack.
KLBK’s cameras captured the moment when Martinelli, shirtless and in handcuffs, was taken into custody by the police. He is now facing charges for his mother’s murder, as well as charges for evading arrest on foot. The defendant is being held at the Lubbock County Detention Center on a bond set at $500,000. The tragic passing of Dr. Brigitte Curtis has left many devastated, with StarCare Speciality Health System expressing their condolences and acknowledging the positive impact she had on numerous individuals.
Dr. Curtis, a graduate of the University of Colorado School of Medicine, had been a licensed physician since 1993. She specialized in child and adolescent psychiatry, holding certifications issued by the American Board of Medical Specialties. As the investigation continues, authorities are working to uncover the motive behind this senseless act of violence that prematurely ended Dr. Curtis’ life.