Liberty County Sheriff’s Office provides update in Kenefick attempted murder-suicide case

The Liberty County Sheriff’s Office has released new details in the case of an alleged attempted murder-suicide involving a mother and her three children. The incident happened early Monday morning, Sept. 29, near Kenefick.

Deputies were called just before 6 a.m. after a man reported that his wife had tried to drown their children—ages 15, 11 and 6—and herself in a pond on the family’s property in the 9100 block of FM 1008 near Simmons Bottom Road.

When deputies arrived, the three children had already been pulled from the water, reportedly by their father. The mother, identified as 39-year-old Jessica Quintana, was taken out of the pond by deputies. Emergency crews performed lifesaving measures on the 11-year-old girl. At the scene, Quintana was allegedly unable to breathe on her own.

Initially, two of the children—a 15-year-old girl and a 6-year-old boy—were listed in stable condition, while Quintana and her 11-year-old daughter were reported to be in critical condition at Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston. Early claims suggested the children may have been given Nyquil and alcohol, but investigators have not confirmed that information.

The Sheriff’s Office said the investigation remains active with assistance from the District Attorney’s Office and the Texas Rangers. The motive behind the incident is still unknown.

In an update released Tuesday, Oct. 1, authorities reported that all three children have now been medically cleared and are expected to be released from the hospital soon. Once discharged, they will be placed in the custody of Child Protective Services. Officials also confirmed that Quintana’s condition has improved and is now listed as good. She remains hospitalized.

The Sheriff’s Office further stated that the children’s father, Domingo Quintana, was arrested early Tuesday morning on an unrelated charge. He was being held at the Liberty County Jail but was expected to bond out later in the day.

At this time, no charges have been filed in connection with the alleged attempted murder-suicide. The Sheriff’s Office expressed appreciation to the Baytown Police Department dive team, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office dive team, Bridgehaven Child Advocacy Center, Child Protective Services, and the staff at Memorial Hermann Hospital for their assistance in the case.

Capt. Meyers said the investigation is ongoing and additional updates will be provided as they become available.