A 69-year-old woman in Harris County, Texas, was allegedly beaten to death by her son, with police believing he used a hammer to carry out the brutal attack. Authorities say 35-year-old Jarell Joseph killed his mother, Eva Peavy, in their home on Wednesday night, February 12, 2025.
Son Found Holding Hammer Near Mother’s Body
According to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), officers responded to a disturbing 911 call and found Joseph pacing in and out of the house, clutching a hammer, while his mother lay dead in the garage.
- His stepbrother was inside the home during the attack.
- He called their father, Curtis Peavy, frantically saying, “Jarell just did something to momma Eva.”
- Joseph was arrested at the scene without incident after surrendering the hammer.
HCSO Sgt. Michael Ritchie told reporters that when deputies arrived, Joseph was calm and cooperative but displayed no emotion.
“His brother observed him with a hammer and said Jarell wasn’t speaking or reacting,” Ritchie said. “He just kept his distance.”
History of Domestic Violence and Mental Health Struggles
Court records reveal that Joseph had previously attacked his mother, including a choking incident that was interrupted by his grandmother.
His stepfather, Curtis Peavy, said Joseph was diagnosed with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
“He had gotten on that synthetic weed,” Peavy claimed. “We got him into rehab and on medication, but he stopped taking it.”
Eva Peavy had been trying to help her son despite their troubled relationship.
Stepfather Mourns Wife’s Death: “A Loving, Caring Mom”
Curtis Peavy, who raised Joseph as his own son, was devastated by the murder.
“That’s her son, but I raised him. I was the only dad in his life,” Peavy said.
“(Eva was) a loving, caring mom. I know it’s just the peace of God that’s keeping me together right now.”
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Joseph has been charged with first-degree murder and remains in police custody. Authorities are investigating whether his mental illness and drug use played a role in the attack.
If convicted, he could face life in prison.
Key Takeaways from the Texas Murder Case
A 35-year-old man allegedly killed his 69-year-old mother in their home.
Police suspect a hammer was used in the brutal attack.
The suspect has a history of domestic violence and mental illness.
The victim’s husband is heartbroken but relying on faith to stay strong.
The accused is charged with first-degree murder and faces possible life in prison.
