The man accused of killing his wife following a five-hour standoff last weekend faced a judge on Monday.
James Paul Anderson, a 37-year-old Santa Fe Middle School employee, is facing a murder charge.
On Sunday, officials said he shot and killed his wife while their young son was in their home on Vista Ridge in Kingwood.
RELATED: Husband arrested after killing wife, barricading himself inside NE Houston home for 5 hours
The child was able to get out and is said to be OK, but Anderson’s refusal to surrender for five hours led to a SWAT standoff. He was eventually taken into custody without further incident.
Officials say the couple had a history of violence.
As for Anderson, Cleveland ISD released a statement saying he’s been placed on administration leave pending the outcome of the investigation.
His bond was set at $300,000. He’s due back in court on Tuesday.
Trauma therapist gives advice
Abuse victims’ advocates say the history of domestic abuse that officials mentioned is a loud sign of imminent danger.
“Clearly just another case of senseless tragedy now a child doesn’t have parents,” said Chau Nguyen, JEM Wellness & Counseling Center, and trauma therapist.
Nguyen is sounding the alarm on what seems to be a growing problem.
“We do know a few things about domestic violence murders. They have quadrupled in Harris County in the last 4 years according to some reports. Two-thirds of all domestic violence murders are committed with a gun,” Nguyen said.
Those are some reasons why she wants to remind anyone suffering, or who knows someone suffering domestic abuse about the unsettling statistics.
“When there’s a history of domestic violence and there’s a gun in the home, you’re more likely to have that gun used against you,” she added.
In the Andersons’ case, officials say there was a divorce pending. Nguyen said leaving is the most dangerous time in a relationship so it’s important to have a safety plan that can be created by professionals.
“What kinds of bags you’re going to pack? What’s going to be in the bag? When you’re going to leave? If there’s a gun in the house? Who you’re going to talk to? What the code word might be,” Nguyen said.
For help creating a safety plan, click here.
In an effort to help victims, KPRC 2 News created a series, “Breaking Free,” reporting on domestic-related violence and its horrific consequences. The series showcased various stories of survival, heartache, and some even ending in death, but each shared a list of free domestic violence resources on how to get help.
Do you know someone in need of help? KPRC 2 released the following features in “Breaking Free.”
Help is also available immediately if you need it through the following numbers:
- Houston Area Women’s Center: (713) 528-2121
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799−7233
- If you are in immediate danger, call 911.