Nationwide — Three members of an African American family from Georgetown, Texas, near Austin were found shot to death inside their apartment. The victims include 34-year-old Alonzo Hawkins, 39-year-old Doneisha Brooks, and her 8-year-old daughter, Olivia. Police believe the victims knew their killer and say the search for a suspect is ongoing.
The family had only recently moved to Georgetown in May 2024. Relatives said Doneisha had found a job, secured an apartment, and bought a car, while her cousin Alonzo joined them in hopes of starting fresh in a safer environment, according to NBC DFW.
Concerns grew when relatives could not reach them over the weekend. A friend went to check on the apartment, where the bodies of Hawkins, Brooks, and Olivia, nicknamed “Froggy,” were discovered. All three had been shot multiple times.
The killings have shaken loved ones and the Mansfield community. Pastor Michael Evans called on the public to share any information that could help police catch the killer. Olivia’s aunt described the young girl as a “little spitfire” who would have celebrated her ninth birthday in October.
Investigators believe the victims may have known their attacker. Authorities confirmed they have identified a person of interest but have not released a name. No arrests have been made, and police said the investigation remains active.
The Brooks family, well known in Mansfield, has been surrounded by support from neighbors and friends. Family friend Diana Perez recalled Doneisha’s passion for gardening and baking, especially her pineapple upside-down cake. She also remembered seeing Doneisha and Alonzo as children riding her school bus.
Perez’s granddaughter was close friends with Olivia. Breaking the news to her was heartbreaking. “This has never happened in our family that we have to tell an 8-year-old that her good friend passed away and how,” Perez said.
Family members expressed frustration at the lack of updates from Georgetown police. “Georgetown is not giving us answers right now at this moment,” said Joseph Brooks.
A GoFundMe page has been created to help with funeral expenses, which has raised more than $15,000 so far.