Shelby County Sheriff Kevin W. Windham reports that on Monday, July 31, 2023, at approximately 9:45 p.m., the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office received a call regarding a shooting incident that had reportedly occurred at a residence located at 6190 FM 138 in Center. Law enforcement personnel responded and discovered a male subject identified as Elmer Gene Richards, 54, of Center, deceased from apparent gunshot wounds. The suspect in the shooting incident was identified as Elmer’s brother, James Wayne Richards, 58, of Center.
Preliminary information is that Elmer and James were involved in an argument that escalated into the shooting incident. James Richards was arrested for First Degree Murder and transported to the Shelby County jail.
Elmer Richards was pronounced by Justice of the Peace – Precinct 1, Donna Hughes, and an autopsy has been ordered.
This case is actively being investigated. If you have any information regarding this investigation, please contact the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office at (936) 598-5601.