December 26, 2014 - Houston police are investigating the fatal shooting of a woman and the apparent suicide of a male at 7518 El Rancho about 1:50 p.m. on Tuesday (Dec. 23).

The deceased female victim, Melodie Ruiz-Mendez, 40, of Pasadena, was transported to Ben Taub General Hospital where she was later pronounced dead. The deceased male suspect, identified as Juan Gabriel Ruiz-Mendez, was pronounced dead at the scene.

HPD Homicide Division Senior Police Officer M. Waters and Officer W. Gilbert reported:

Juan and Melodie Ruiz-Mendez were sitting in a car on the street at the above address when Juan, armed with a gun, shot Melodie more than once in torso. He then fatally shot himself.

Further investigation indicated Juan and Melodie were separated and their divorce was set to be finalized at the end of the month.

JKS/JFC 12-26-14
Inc. #163069214