Esther Gitau, 37, an active-duty soldier stationed at Fort Cavazos and a food safety inspector with the 1st Medical Brigade, was found dead in her home on Lakecrest Drive in Killeen, Texas, on February 21, 2025. Authorities discovered she had suffered multiple gunshot wounds during a welfare check; she was pronounced dead about two hours later. Her service record included postings at Naval Station Norfolk and Fort Knox and awards such as the Army Achievement Medal and Army Good Conduct Medal.

Staff Sgt. John Gitau Mwangi, 42, also stationed at Fort Cavazos and identified as Esther Gitau’s husband, was arrested in connection with her death. He was taken into custody at Fort Cavazos and is being held at the Killeen City Jail on a first-degree murder charge pending grand jury indictment. Police said the incident was related to domestic violence but have not publicly given a specific motive. Two children were in the home and were reportedly unaware of what had happened.

The investigation is ongoing and authorities say there is no ongoing threat. If anyone knew Esther, her routines, or saw anything in Killeen on February 21 that might help the inquiry, please share information with the Killeen Police Department.