I’m quite saddened to report that police have discovered two dead at Rough Creek Lodge in Texas. One victim has been identified as Chris Kyle, former US Navy SEAL and author of the best seller, “American Sniper.” As of Sunday morning, the second victim has been identified as close friend, 35 year old Chad Littlefield of Midlothian, Texas. Law Enforcement is treating the deaths as homicides.
Erath County, Texas Sheriff investigators stated that they have identified a suspect and that he should be treated as armed and dangerous, having military training. As head of Craft International, Chris often trained at Rock Creek Lodge, a well known resort offering Golf, Fishing, Hunting and Shooting Sports.
Whether training others to responsibly handle firearms, honing the skill of his fellow warriors or raising funds to help the wounded heal, Chris stood with his fellow Americans as a hero. Tragically, we understand that it was during a wounded warrior event that the fatalities occurred. Chris leaves behind his wife Taya and two children. We are diminished by his loss.
Local news outlets are reporting that the murders occurred between 3 and 4 PM and that just before 9 PM CST they apprehended suspect Eddie Ray Routh over 70 miles away in Lancaster, Texas. The suspect fled the scene in Kyle’s pickup. 25 year old Routh is a Texas native and authorities are seeking a capital murder warrant. Routh is said to be a USMC Veteran and a PTSD sufferer, although there has been not motive disclosed in the murders. He has been arraigned and is being held on a $3 Million bond.
UPDATE – Apparently, the three were at a range at about 3:15 on the property and were discovered by a hunting guide about two hours later. Erath County Sheriff Tommy Bryant has disclosed that Routh used a semiauto handgun in the slayings and shot both victims multiple times.
Further details have emerged. Apparently, Routh drove to his sister’s home in Midlothian and told his sister and brother-in-law about the crime and they contacted authorities after he had left.
www.yourstephenvilletx.com reports that jailers had to tase an unruly Routh when the prisoner refused to turn in his tray after dinner. He is reportedly restrained to a chair in his cell.
We will continue to update this story as we receive additional information.
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