A quiet neighborhood in Nacogdoches is reeling after three people and a dog were found dead inside a home on Mystic Lane, near Appleby Sand Road.
Police responded to the residence around 12:30 PM Thursday for a welfare check. What they discovered has launched a full investigation by Nacogdoches Police, Fire, and CenterPoint Energy.
Victims Identified
On Friday, authorities released the names of the victims:
- Amy Manning Kirk, 52
- William Manning Kirk, 22
- John Standley Kirk, 17
According to CBS19, the family had recently moved into the home and were in the process of making renovations. Neighbors described them as a mother and her two sons.
Cause of Death: Suspected Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
At this stage of the investigation, authorities believe carbon monoxide poisoning is the most likely cause of death. That determination comes after initial assessments inside the home, though the investigation remains active.
A Tragic Reminder
Carbon monoxide is odorless, invisible, and deadly. It’s a silent threat that can quickly turn fatal—especially in homes undergoing renovations, where ventilation systems may be compromised.
If your home doesn’t have a carbon monoxide detector, now is the time to install one. Regularly check the batteries and ensure your HVAC and heating systems are properly maintained.
This tragedy underscores the quiet danger carbon monoxide poses—and the life-saving value of prevention.