Sharon Adams, Ernest Adams Obituary, Death – An elderly couple and their adult daughter were found dead in a San Antonio home in what authorities have confirmed as a murder-suicide. The tragic discovery was made on the afternoon of May 22, 2025, following a welfare check requested at a residence located in the 8600 block of Bristlecone Drive.
Police officers from the San Antonio Police Department were dispatched to the home at approximately 2:42 p.m. after someone expressed concern about the well-being of the residents. When officers arrived at the scene, they first knocked on the front door, but there was no response. To investigate further, they proceeded to the backyard, where they observed a disturbing scene through the windows—two elderly individuals appeared lifeless, seated together on a couch inside the home.
Officers immediately entered the residence to assess the situation. Upon entry, they confirmed that the elderly couple seen from the window was indeed deceased, both having suffered fatal gunshot wounds. As they searched further, officers found a third person—identified as the couple’s adult daughter—also dead inside the home.
The Bexar County Medical Examiner later identified the victims as 83-year-old Sharon Adams and 84-year-old Ernest Adams. Both had sustained fatal gunshot injuries. Sharon was killed by multiple gunshot wounds, while Ernest died from a single gunshot wound to the head.
The third individual found deceased was identified as their 54-year-old daughter, Mariah Adams. According to the police and the medical examiner’s findings, Mariah died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, indicating she took her own life after fatally shooting her parents. Investigators have since classified the case as a double homicide followed by a suicide.
At this time, police have not released further details about the possible motive behind the tragic event. The circumstances leading up to the shooting remain under investigation. Authorities have not found any signs of forced entry or struggle, suggesting that all three individuals were inside the home together at the time of the incident and that the door was likely locked from the inside.
Neighbors and community members expressed their shock and sadness over the news. Many described the Adams couple as quiet, friendly, and long-time residents of the neighborhood. The family was not known to law enforcement for any previous disturbances or issues, adding to the community’s surprise at such a devastating outcome.
The crime scene was processed thoroughly by forensic teams, and investigators are reviewing any potential written materials or communications left behind by Mariah that could provide insight into her state of mind or reasons for the actions she took. As of now, no note has been publicly confirmed.
Mental health professionals and crisis counselors have emphasized the importance of awareness and support in cases of family stress, mental illness, and caregiver fatigue—issues that can affect aging families and adult children alike. While it’s unclear whether any such factors were involved in this case, experts note that tragedies like this often stem from complex, long-standing emotional or psychological challenges.
The murder-suicide has brought renewed attention to the emotional struggles that some individuals may endure silently, particularly when caring for elderly parents or dealing with personal crises. Local agencies are urging people to reach out for support when facing overwhelming circumstances and to take warning signs seriously.
Family members of the Adams family have not released a public statement yet, likely still grappling with the shocking loss of three loved ones under such horrific circumstances. Meanwhile, authorities are working to finalize their investigation and provide a full report on what may have led to this heartbreaking event.
In the coming days, arrangements for funeral services are expected to be announced. The local community has already begun expressing condolences and support, with neighbors leaving flowers and handwritten notes near the Adams’ home in remembrance.
This incident marks one of the more disturbing murder-suicides in the area in recent years and has prompted community leaders and mental health advocates to call for greater outreach, mental health services, and support networks for families experiencing high levels of stress or emotional hardship.
As the investigation continues, San Antonio police are encouraging anyone who might have had recent contact with Mariah Adams or who may have relevant information to come forward. While the case appears to be self-contained, additional context could help authorities better understand what happened and possibly help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The loss of Sharon, Ernest, and Mariah Adams is being felt deeply by those who knew them, and the San Antonio community mourns the end of three lives in such a tragic and sorrowful manner.