Police in Winston-Salem are investigating a murder-suicide that occurred on Tuesday morning, resulting in the deaths of two young individuals. Chief William Penn addressed the media during a press conference, expressing the somber atmosphere in the city. The incident took place at Water Lily Circle, where officers responded to a shooting call at approximately 3:30 a.m.
Upon arrival, authorities discovered the bodies of 55-year-old David Lee Housden, 20-year-old Alexander David Housden, and 16-year-old Kaylee Nicole Housden. All three individuals had sustained fatal gunshot wounds. The preliminary investigation suggests that David Housden shot his two children before taking his own life. The mother of the victims made the distressing call to the police.
Kaylee Housden was a student at Atkins High School and a member of the Color Guard. Superintendent Tricia McManus expressed the school’s readiness to provide counseling and support to Kaylee’s classmates. Alexander Housden, on the other hand, was a student at Winston-Salem State University, majoring in exercise science. The university released a statement expressing their deep sadness and offering counseling services to students, faculty, and staff.
This tragic incident marks the second murder-suicide in Winston-Salem this year, resulting in a total loss of seven lives. In April, another murder-suicide occurred on Brookhill Drive, leaving three children aged 9, 12, and 14 dead. The deaths of Kaylee and Alexander bring the total number of homicides in Winston-Salem in 2023 to 44, compared to 33 during the same period in 2022.
Authorities have not confirmed whether David Housden had a history of mental illness. However, they encourage individuals struggling with their mental health to seek assistance from various organizations in the county. Andy Nagler, the executive director of the Mental Health Association in Forsyth County, emphasized their commitment to connecting people with mental health resources regardless of their insurance status or income.
