TERRELL, Texas — A quiet and friendly neighborhood on Rash Lane was turned upside down on Christmas Eve when police discovered four people dead inside a home during what was supposed to be a routine welfare check. The discovery has left residents stunned and searching for answers in the aftermath of a holiday meant for peace and family.
Just before 5:30 p.m. on December 24, Terrell police officers responded to a call at a residence in the 200 block of Rash Lane after someone requested a welfare check. When officers entered the home, they found four people who had died inside. At first, authorities did not release names, but officials assured the public there was no active threat to the community.
In the days that followed, investigators identified the victims. They included 66‑year‑old Philip Dale Humphrey of Kaufman, 62‑year‑old Sherry Lynn Bostick of Terrell, and a 12‑year‑old boy from Wills Point whose family asked that his name be withheld. The three were found with fatal gunshot wounds.
The fourth person, 38‑year‑old Casey Dale Humphrey of Forney, was identified as the suspected shooter. Police say he died from a self‑inflicted gunshot wound, pointing to what investigators are now calling a likely murder‑suicide. Authorities have not yet disclosed a motive or confirmed how the victims were connected, and detectives continue gathering evidence and interviewing people who may have information.
Neighbors in the usually calm community said they were shocked when the police arrived that evening. Kathern Limmer, who lives directly across the street, was preparing for Christmas Day when she saw flashing lights fill the street. She and her husband, Johnny, described the scene as “mind‑boggling,” saying they never expected something so tragic to happen in their neighborhood.
Another neighbor, Stephanie Turner, remembered hearing about the discovery while celebrating with her family. “Knowing that while we were celebrating life, something so terrible happened just down the street — it’s something you never want to hear, especially on Christmas Eve,” she said. Their reactions reflect the grief and confusion felt by many living nearby.
Family members and close friends of the victims are now left to mourn and to try to make sense of what occurred. Many in the community say the loss will change how they remember this holiday season forever, turning what should be warm memories into a time marked by unanswered questions and sorrow.
The Terrell Police Department continues to ask anyone with information about the case to come forward. Officers stress the investigation is ongoing as they work to piece together what led to this devastating moment in a normally quiet part of North Texas.
