A military recruiter fatally shot his wife while she was holding their baby and filing a domestic violence complaint against him, authorities said. According to PEOPLE, the fatal September 22 incident occurred at the Houston home of Greg and Takara Glenn Hightower. Takara was said to be filing the complaint with Naval Criminal Investigative Service agents when Greg entered the home and opened fire.
“The NCIS Special Agent and second NCIS Special Agent on scene returned fire on Mr. Hightower, who managed to flee and drive away,” NCIS spokesman Jeff Houston wrote in an email to the news outlet.
Greg, who was a senior chief recruiter in the Navy, subsequently fled to a family member’s residence where he died after engaging in a shootout with sheriff’s deputies, Houston Chronicle reported.
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The NCIS agent also sustained an injury, and he was transported to a hospital for treatment. His condition was listed as stable, the NCIS said.
Deputies had previously responded to the couple’s residence for an alleged domestic violence incident, per ABC13. Police said that Takara claimed Greg physically assaulted her in July. But no charges were brought against the couple because Greg had also claimed that his wife also hit him.
Two days before her husband fatally shot her, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office said that Takara contacted police to ascertain the process of filing a restraining order.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victim’s family and loved ones,” said Houston in the NCIS statement, PEOPLE reported. “We also pray for a speedy recovery for our wounded Special Agent. Out of respect for the investigative process, NCIS will not comment further at this time.”
A GoFundMe has since been set up to help raise funds for Takara’s family. The deceased woman leaves behind six children. The fundraiser stated that the minors have been “left in the full care” of Takara’s mother and sisters.
“Takara Glenn Hightower was the victim of a senseless and tragic act of domestic violence. Takara (Ki) as most of us knew her by, left 6 children behind whose ages range from 12 months to 16 years old. They are left Mother and fatherless,” Takara’s best friend wrote on the GoFundMe.
“A fearless Lioness and protective mamma bear who lived for each of her children. The bond that Ki shared with her babies was like none other. The selfless, caring, and relentless woman that she was shined bright in her children’s eyes.”
