A Father’s Day celebration in North Texas turned into a tragedy when a 61-year-old man fatally shot his own daughter while attempting to intervene in a domestic dispute — and is now sitting in jail facing murder charges on what should have been one of the most joyful days of the year.
Charles Tod Brooks of Azle, Texas, was arrested and charged with one count of murder following the death of his 25-year-old daughter, Rebekah Bailey Brooks, on Sunday evening. The incident unfolded at the family’s residence in Azle, a small community located approximately 15 miles northwest of Fort Worth.
According to the Parker County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a 911 call reporting a gunshot victim at the home. Upon arrival, first responders immediately began lifesaving measures, later joined by emergency medical personnel, but their efforts proved unsuccessful.
Witnesses told investigators the incident began when Rebekah and her mother became involved in a physical altercation inside the home. As the fight escalated, Charles Brooks made a decision that investigators say would seal his daughter’s fate — he retrieved a handgun, loaded it, and chambered a bullet before stepping in to separate the two women.
During the confrontation, the weapon discharged. The single bullet struck Rebekah in the chest, killing her.
Brooks has maintained the shooting was accidental. However, authorities noted that his own account confirmed he deliberately loaded and chambered the firearm before approaching the women — a detail investigators found significant.
Brooks is currently held in the Parker County Jail on a $2 million bond. Texas Rangers have since joined the ongoing investigation alongside the Parker County Sheriff’s Office.
Parker County Sheriff Russ Authier expressed condolences, extending thoughts and prayers to the victim’s family.
The motive behind the initial argument between Rebekah and her mother remains unknown. The case has not yet been formally docketed in court records.
