In a shocking incident that has disturbed the community of Georgetown, Texas, retired District Judge Alfred “Burt” Carnes, 74, and his wife, Susan H. Carnes, also 74, were found dead in their home.
The couple’s 45-year-old son, Seth B. Carnes, has been arrested and charged with capital murder.
The Williamson County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call late Monday night, January 9, 2024, about a shooting at the Carnes’ residence near Georgetown.
Upon arrival, deputies found Seth Carnes exiting the house. He immediately confessed to shooting and killing his parents, according to the sheriff’s office’s press release.
Burt Carnes was discovered dead in the living room with shotgun wounds, and Susan Carnes was found deceased in a bedroom over the garage.
Their son, Seth, who lived with them in a converted garage attached to the main home, is currently being held at the Williamson County Jail without bond.
The incident seemed to have stemmed from a family disagreement that escalated into violence, as suggested by the preliminary investigation. The probable cause arrest affidavit, as seen by the Austin American-Statesman, said Seth Carnes shared his belief that his mother was attempting to administer a sleeping pill to him, a decision he was resistant to. He was asked if there were additional reasons for his violent action against his mother beyond the sleeping pill issue. He responded, “That’s it.” Inquiring about the rationale behind him shooting his father, he replied, “I’ve just been looking for something and figured I would finish the job.” Following this, Seth communicated his preference to end the conversation.
The couple’s 19-year-old granddaughter, who has not been named, made the initial 911 call reporting that her father had shot her grandfather.
Burt Carnes had a notable career as a judge in the Williamson County 368th District Court, serving for almost 25 years.
Known for his integrity and handling of high-profile cases, Judge Carnes was respected in the legal community. He came from a family deeply rooted in law enforcement, including his father, an FBI agent, and other relatives who served as a Texas Ranger, a Border Patrol agent, and a Wilson County sheriff.
In an interview with the Austin American-Statesman upon his retirement in October 2013, Judge Carnes emphasized his commitment to law over politics. “Early on, I decided that I was going to be a judge, not a politician,” he stated. “You’ve got to follow the law and, within the bounds of the law, do what you think is right.”
His work was acknowledged by Texas Representative John Carter, who described Carnes as an exemplary judge, known for his hard work, fairness, and deep understanding of the law.
Susan Carnes, a prominent community member, was a retired school teacher working for the Taylor and Georgetown independent school districts.
Commander John Foster of the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division commented on the impact of this tragic event, acknowledging the shock and grief it has caused in the community.