Man who claimed he killed wife, daughter in self-defense charged

HOUSTON – A man who claimed he killed his wife and teen daughter in self-defense in June was charged in connection with their deaths Wednesday.

Houston police said that on June 16, 44-year-old Michael Ratliff shot his wife, 44-year-old Latoya Ratliff, and their daughter, 14-year-old Ariel Ratliff, at their Alkay Street home.

Michael Ratliff told investigators that he was forced to shoot his wife and daughter after they tried to attack him with knives.

After the shooting, a family member told KPRC2’s Samantha Ptashkin that the Ratliffs had marital issues.

According to court documents, Michael Ratliff was arrested Wednesday and charged with capital murder in connection with the case.

The document showed that Michael Ratliff was being held in jail without bond.