Houston attorney Michael C. Howard is facing a $10 million bond after being charged with killing his son, reportedly waiting 17 hours before contacting authorities and burning the body.
.jpg)
Michael C. Howard, a 68-year-old lawyer from Houston, faces charges in connection with the death of his 20-year-old son, Mark Howard, at their property in rural Sabine County. During a press conference on Thursday, authorities disclosed unsettling details of the case.
Joseph MacDonough, an investigator from Sabine County, stated that Michael Howard reportedly shot his son, believing him to be an intruder. Mark Howard, who had been diagnosed with Down syndrome and was considered “high functioning,” was reportedly killed on Sunday night.
Instead of promptly reaching out to law enforcement, Howard delayed for 17 hours before notifying the Sabine County Sheriff’s Office. At this time, he is said to have burned his son's body and cleaned the crime scene with a water hose.
According to investigators, Howard sought the advice of his wife and older son prior to reaching out to the deputies. His wife has participated in an interview related to the ongoing investigation.
Howard is subject to a $10 million bond while the investigation is ongoing. Officials in Sabine County are diligently investigating the complete details surrounding the unfortunate incident.
.jpg)
Early voting for the March 3, 2026 Texas primary runs Feb. 17-27. Houston-area voters will decide key federal, statewide and local races, including a high-profile U.S. Senate contest and the open Harris County judge seat.
.jpg)
Federal officials temporarily shut down air traffic at El Paso International Airport after the Pentagon allowed Customs and Border Protection to deploy an anti-drone laser near Fort Bliss, according to two people familiar with the matter. The closure lasted only hours, but it stranded travelers and raised new questions about coordination between defense and aviation agencies.
.jpg)
Houston has already recorded six 80-degree days in 2026, and forecasters expect more this week as a February heat ridge pushes temperatures 15 degrees above normal. While daily records are unlikely to fall, highs could approach longstanding marks set in the 1960s.