Alfred 'Burt' Carnes: Community in shock as former Williamson County judge, wife shot dead by son at home

WILLIAMSON COUNTY, TEXAS: A former Williamson County judge and his wife were shot dead at home by their son on late Monday night, January 8.

Their 45-year-old son, Seth Bryan Carnes, stands accused as the alleged perpetrator and now faces capital murder charges in connection to the deaths of his parents, 74-year-old Alfred "Burt" Carnes and 74-year-old Susan H Carnes.

Timeline of the tragic shooting

The tragic event transpired around 11:40 pm on January 8, prompting a 911 call from a distressed woman reporting that her father had shot her grandfather. Deputies swiftly responded to the residence in the 300 block of County Road 317, just outside Georgetown city limits.

Upon arrival, authorities encountered Seth leaving the home and promptly detained him. Allegedly admitting to the shooting, Seth informed deputies that he had just killed his mother and father.

Inside the residence, investigators discovered Carnes on the living room floor, along with a black shotgun and a spent shell casing in the kitchen area. Susan was found in an upstairs bedroom in the converted garage, with injuries and bandages on her left shoulder and collarbone area.

Despite efforts by EMS, both victims were pronounced dead at the scene.

What was the motive behind the callous act of violence?

During interviews with detectives, Seth claimed uncertainty about the events leading to the tragic incident but acknowledged shooting his parents with a shotgun kept near his nightstand.

He stated that his reason for the shooting was a belief that his mother was trying to put a sleeping pill in his mouth and he did not want to take it, asserting there was no other motive.

When questioned about his father, Seth cryptically stated, "I've just been looking for something and figured I would finish the job."

Commander John Foster of the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division expressed deep distress over the incident.

"This deeply distressing incident has sent shockwaves through our community, particularly considering Alfred "Burt" Carnes' esteemed position as a retired District Judge. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the friends and family affected by this heartbreaking event," KXAN reported.

The criminal prosecution has been referred to the District Attorney's Office for further proceedings. Seth is presently held in custody without bond.