SUSPECT SURRENDERS IN THE MURDER OF SIX SPRING FAMILY MEMBERS

  

Authorities say a gunman disguised as a delivery man forced his way into his sister-in-law's home in Spring, killing two adults and four children, and critically wounding a fifth child.

Thirty-three year old Ronald Lee Haskell has been charged with multiple counts of capital murder in the killings Wednesday evening. He also is accused of critically wounding a 15-year-old girl in the shooting rampage.

Harris County officials say Haskell held his sister-in-law’s children at gunpoint until their parents arrived, then opened fire. A police statement says Haskell demanded to know where he could find his estranged wife. After the children's parents, 33-year old Katie and 39-year old Stephen Stay arrived home, Haskell opened fire on the family. The children killed were two boys ages 4 and 14, plus two girls ages 7 and 9.

Investigators say the 15-year-old girl attempted to close the door to the home after telling Haskell her parents weren't home, but he was able to kick in the door.

After Haskell left the home the injured girl contacted authorities telling them the shooter was en route to shoot other family members.

Authorities located Haskell and a low-speed chase ensued, ending in a cul-de-sac.  A standoff lasted more than three hours before Haskell surrendered.

Haskell is the estranged husband of Katie Stay's sister who authorities say moved to Utah to escape her relationship with Haskell.

Law enforcement had initially stated Haskell was the father of the slain children but later corrected that account.