Texas: 4, Including 2 Kids, Found Dead in Alleged Murder-Suicide

By BERT HOOVER Aug 30 2023, 01:30 AM EDT

A tragic incident unfolded in Allen, Texas, as a family of four individuals was discovered deceased in what appears to be a murder-suicide within their residence on Monday, per WFFA.

Authorities responded to a welfare check request around 8:45 AM on Monday at a residence in the 1200 block of Aberdeen Drive, close to North Allen Heights Drive and East Exchange Parkway, as stated in a police press release.

Initial reports indicate that a resident had been locked out of the dwelling and was unsuccessful in prompting their family members to open the door.

Subsequently, additional family members arrived, enabling police entry into the residence, where they discovered the lifeless bodies of four individuals.

Allen police continue their investigation into the matter, with updates expected as they progress with their inquiries.

Police Confirm Identities of Texas Family

The Allen Police Department has confirmed the victims' identities involved in the Texas murder-suicide incident.

The victims are Farman Sherwani, the father; Layla Sherwani, the mother; their 12-year-old son, Shaheen Sherwani, and their 2-year-old son, Mateen Sherwani, according to Fox 4.

It has also been disclosed that the family experienced the loss of their 4-year-old daughter, Lyian Sherwani, in a drowning incident earlier this month.

The specifics of the drowning are not entirely clear, but authorities believe this event played a role in the subsequent murder-suicide.

The Allen Independent School District verified that one of the victims was a fifth-grade student at Olson Elementary.

The school communicated the "unexpected death" of the student to parents through a message. It ensured counselors were available at the school to support students on Tuesday.

The Islamic Association of Allen organized a funeral for the four family members, and the community has come together to mourn the devastating loss.

Abdul Rahman Bashir, the religious director at the mosque, shared that the Sherwani family were members of the congregation and were known to be close-knit.

The family was already grappling with the tragic loss of their daughter, and this compounded the challenges they were facing.

The entire community, both within and outside the congregation, has expressed deep sorrow and compassion for the family during this difficult time.

Similar Incident Happened in the Community 2 Years Ago

Imam Abdul Rahman Bashir acknowledged the unfortunate recurrence of a similar tragedy within the community two years prior when six individuals were discovered deceased in another Allen residence.

The Islamic Association of Allen had also conducted a janazah prayer for the Texas family at the time, The Dallas Morning News reports.

Considering these distressing events, Bashir emphasized the importance of communication and support within the community.

He encouraged mosque attendees to confide in someone they trust if they struggle with life's challenges.

Additionally, he urged everyone to be attentive to signs of distress in others and to be ready to listen when someone reaches out for help.

Bashir underscored that moments of empathy and attention could have a transformative impact, possibly making the difference between life and tragedy.

The association has collaborated with the Muslim Association for Psychological Services to further extend support.

Licensed mental health professionals were made available on Tuesday evening, demonstrating the community's commitment to providing accessible resources and care during these trying times.

"We are all one ummah and one body," Bashir said. "It is our job to be there for each other."