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Comcast NBCUniversal Spinoff Would Create Separate Media Company

Comcast announced plans Monday for a Comcast NBCUniversal spinoff that would separate NBCUniversal and Sky into a new public company. The move would split Comcast’s media assets from its broadband, wireless and technology businesses.

Comcast NBCUniversal Spinoff Plan

The proposed transaction would create two independent publicly traded companies. Comcast said shareholders would own shares in both Comcast and NBCUniversal after the separation.

The new NBCUniversal company would include Universal film and television studios, NBC, Telemundo, Peacock, Bravo, Universal theme parks and Sky. Comcast would continue to focus on broadband, wireless, business services and entertainment platforms.

Comcast said the tax-free spinoff is expected to close in about one year. The deal still needs final Comcast board approval, tax opinions, regulatory approvals and financing arrangements.

Leadership Changes Ahead

Mike Cavanagh, Comcast’s co-chief executive officer, would become CEO of NBCUniversal after the split. Former Comcast Chief Financial Officer Michael Angelakis would become CEO of Comcast.

Brian L. Roberts, Comcast chairman and co-CEO, is expected to remain involved with both companies. Comcast said he would work with the leadership teams at Comcast and NBCUniversal.

The company said the split would give each business more focus. Comcast said media and communications markets continue to change because of technology, competition and consumer habits.

What NBCUniversal and Sky Would Include

NBCUniversal would become a global media and entertainment company with major film, television, streaming, sports, news and theme park assets. Sky would also be part of that company.

Sky is Comcast’s European media business. Comcast bought Sky in 2018, giving the company a larger international television and entertainment footprint.

The NBCUniversal side would also include Peacock, Comcast’s streaming platform. Streaming has become a central part of the media business as traditional cable television faces pressure.

What Comcast Would Keep

The remaining Comcast company would focus on internet, wireless and business services. It would also continue operating entertainment platform services tied to its technology business.

Comcast said its network reaches more than 65 million homes and businesses. The company also pointed to its wireless growth and business services platform as key parts of its future.

The company expects to keep up to a 19.9% stake in NBCUniversal for up to one year after the spinoff. Comcast said it plans to monetize that stake over time in a tax-efficient way.

Why the Split Matters

The announcement comes as major media companies rethink their structures. Cable television has lost viewers to streaming services, while broadband and wireless remain core businesses for Comcast.

Comcast already moved to separate several cable networks into Versant, including CNBC, MSNBC, USA Network, E!, Syfy and Golf Channel. The new announcement goes further by separating NBCUniversal and Sky from Comcast’s technology-focused business.

For viewers, the immediate impact may be limited. NBC, Telemundo, Peacock, Universal and Sky would continue operating under NBCUniversal. However, the company’s strategy, investments and partnerships could change after the separation.

The Comcast NBCUniversal spinoff marks one of the biggest media restructurings in years. The final outcome will depend on approvals, timing and market conditions, but the plan shows how sharply the media and technology businesses are moving in different directions.

Supreme Court Mail Ballot Ruling Allows States to Count Some Ballots After Election Day

The Supreme Court mail ballot ruling gives states room to count certain mailed ballots that arrive after Election Day. The 5-4 decision, issued June 29, upheld a Mississippi law covering ballots postmarked by Election Day and received up to five business days later.

Supreme Court Mail Ballot Ruling Centers on State Deadlines

The case, Watson v. Republican National Committee, focused on whether federal Election Day laws require mailed ballots to arrive by Election Day.

Justice Amy Coney Barrett wrote the majority opinion. Chief Justice John Roberts and the court’s three liberal justices joined her.

The court said federal law sets the deadline for voters to cast ballots. However, it does not set one national deadline for when mailed ballots must be received.

Mississippi’s law allows certain absentee ballots to count if they are postmarked by Election Day and arrive within five business days. The court said that rule does not conflict with federal law.

Why the Ballot Case Matters

The Republican National Committee, the Mississippi Republican Party and others challenged the law. They argued that counting ballots after Election Day violated federal statutes.

A federal appeals court had sided with the challengers. The Supreme Court reversed that decision.

The ruling matters beyond Mississippi. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, several states allow at least some mail ballots to arrive after Election Day if voters mailed them on time.

The decision does not require every state to accept late-arriving ballots. Instead, it allows states to set their own receipt deadlines, as long as voters cast the ballots by Election Day.

What the Court Said

The majority said the key act in an election is the voter’s choice. In mail voting, that choice happens when the voter casts the ballot.

The court also pointed to federal laws for military and overseas voters. Those laws often refer to state deadlines for receiving ballots.

Justice Samuel Alito wrote the main dissent. He argued that federal Election Day laws should require ballots to arrive by Election Day.

The dissent warned that longer receipt windows could raise concerns about public confidence in elections. The majority said those policy arguments should go to lawmakers, not courts.

What It Means for Texas Voters

The decision does not change who can vote by mail in Texas. Texas limits mail voting to voters who meet specific eligibility rules, including voters age 65 or older, voters with disabilities, certain voters outside their county, eligible jailed voters and voters expecting to give birth near Election Day.

Texas also has its own ballot return rules. State guidance says a domestic mail ballot with a valid postmark or delivery receipt showing it was submitted by 7 p.m. on Election Day must arrive by 5 p.m. the next business day.

That means Texas voters should still follow state and county election deadlines closely. A postmark alone may not be enough if the ballot arrives after the state deadline.

Election Officials Prepare for 2026 Voting

The ruling arrives ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. It gives election officials clearer guidance in states with postmark-based mail ballot rules.

For voters, the safest option remains simple. Mail ballots early, track them when possible and check county election guidance before deadlines.

The Supreme Court mail ballot ruling keeps state-level ballot deadlines in place for now. Texas voters should confirm their local rules before every election.

Gulf Freeway Construction Worker Killed During Overnight Houston Project

A Gulf Freeway construction worker killed during an overnight project in Houston died after being struck by a work vehicle, according to police. The crash happened late Sunday, June 28, near the Dixie Farm Road exit.

Houston police said the worker was part of a crew handling a lane closure on the southbound Gulf Freeway. The worker died at the scene.

Gulf Freeway Construction Worker Killed Near Dixie Farm Road

The incident happened around 11 p.m. in the southbound lanes of I-45, also known as the Gulf Freeway. Investigators said a work vehicle was backing up when it struck the worker.

The vehicle was described by local reports as a Scorpion truck. That type of truck is commonly used in road work zones as a crash attenuator. It helps protect crews from traffic impacts.

Police said the driver worked for the same construction company as the worker who died. The driver and a passenger stayed at the scene and cooperated with investigators.

Authorities also said workers at the site were wearing required safety gear, including high-visibility clothing.

Investigation Remains Ongoing

As of Monday morning, officials had not released the worker’s identity. Authorities typically wait until family members are notified before releasing a name.

Houston police are continuing to review what happened before the crash. No charges had been announced in initial reports.

Investigators are expected to examine the work zone, the vehicle’s movement, and statements from people at the scene. Police have not said whether speed, visibility, equipment failure, or other factors played a role.

Work Zone Death Highlights Roadway Risks

The fatal crash comes during a busy period for highway construction across the Houston area. Many crews work overnight to reduce traffic delays and protect drivers during major lane closures.

However, overnight work also carries serious risks. Crews often operate near moving traffic, large vehicles, heavy equipment, and limited visibility.

Work zones depend on clear communication, safe vehicle movement, and driver caution. Even inside a closed lane, construction workers can face hazards from work trucks and passing vehicles.

Drivers Urged To Use Caution Near Crews

The Gulf Freeway remains one of the region’s busiest corridors. Construction zones can change quickly, especially at night.

Drivers should slow down near lane closures, watch for workers, and follow posted signs. Extra caution can help protect crews who maintain and improve Houston-area roads.

The death is a reminder that roadway construction affects real families and workers across the community. Anyone driving through a work zone should stay alert and give crews space.

Texas Becomes First State to Require Bible Readings in Public Schools

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Texas Bible required reading rules are set to begin in public schools after the State Board of Education approved a statewide literary list Friday. The decision makes Texas the first known state to require students to read direct Bible passages as part of a required public school reading list.

The Republican-led board approved the list in a 9-5 vote. The new requirements are expected to roll out in phases beginning with elementary students during the 2030-2031 school year.

Texas Bible Required Reading List Approved

The required literary list covers students from kindergarten through high school. It includes nearly 200 works, with about a dozen Bible passages and Bible-based stories.

The list includes stories such as “David and Goliath” and “Daniel and the Lion’s Den” for younger students. Older students are expected to encounter selections from Genesis, Job, Lamentations and New Testament passages.

The reading list will also be tied to annual standardized exams. That means the selected works will become part of the state’s broader academic expectations.

Texas created the list under a 2023 law that called for at least one required literary work at each grade level. The final list goes much further, setting a larger statewide reading framework.

Supporters Say Bible Passages Add Historical Context

Supporters of the measure argue that biblical texts shaped American history, literature and civic life. They say students should understand references that appear throughout major works and public documents.

Backers also describe the list as literary and historical, not devotional. They say the goal is to teach cultural context rather than promote religious practice.

The vote comes as Texas leaders have pushed several measures involving religion in public schools. In recent years, the state allowed districts to hire chaplains and required public schools to display the Ten Commandments in classrooms.

Supporters say those efforts reflect the role of faith traditions in public life. They also say the Bible remains one of the most influential texts in Western literature.

Critics Raise Church-State Concerns

Critics argue the required list favors Christianity over other religions. They also say it could blur the line between public education and religious instruction.

Some educators and advocacy groups have questioned why the list includes Bible passages but does not give similar attention to other faith traditions. They also raised concerns about specific translations and how teachers will explain religious material in diverse classrooms.

Opponents say the state should allow local districts and teachers to choose reading materials. They argue that a statewide mandate limits classroom flexibility and may crowd out other books.

Some teachers also warned that the list could be difficult to complete within one school year. They said the number of required texts may reduce time for writing, discussion and locally selected reading.

New Rules Could Shape Classrooms Beyond Texas

Texas has one of the largest public school systems in the country, with about 5.5 million students. Because of that size, state curriculum decisions often draw national attention.

Education groups are expected to watch how districts prepare teachers for the new list. Legal challenges are also possible, especially from groups concerned about religious freedom and the separation of church and state.

For now, Texas schools have several years before the requirements begin. Families, educators and state officials will likely continue debating how Bible passages should be taught in public classrooms.

The decision marks a major shift in Texas education policy. It also places the state at the center of a national debate over religion, literature and public school instruction.

Harris County Immigrant Legal Services Program Paused During Court Fight

The Harris County immigrant legal services program is on hold after the Texas Supreme Court issued a temporary order Friday, June 26. The order blocks county officials from funding legal aid for immigrants facing deportation cases while the state’s lawsuit continues.

Texas Supreme Court Pauses Harris County Immigrant Legal Services

The Texas Supreme Court said Harris County must stop disbursing funds tied to the program “until further order.” The court did not make a final ruling on whether the program is legal.

Instead, the order keeps the program paused while a state appeals court continues reviewing the case. The court said there is serious doubt about whether Harris County has the authority to operate the program.

The case centers on the county’s Immigrant Legal Services Fund. The program supports nonprofit organizations that help eligible residents navigate immigration court and deportation proceedings.

Paxton Lawsuit Challenges County Funding

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton sued Harris County in November 2025. His office argued that the county improperly used more than $1.3 million in public funds for private legal services.

Paxton’s lawsuit claims the program violates the Texas Constitution’s ban on certain gifts of public funds. His office argues the county has no legal authority to spend taxpayer money on deportation defense.

Harris County officials have defended the program. They argue that legal representation helps residents follow court processes and supports due process in a complex federal system.

The county has also said the program includes oversight rules. Those include eligibility checks, monthly reporting, invoices, audits and county review before payments are approved.

Earlier Courts Allowed the Program to Continue

Before Friday’s order, Harris County had won key rulings in lower courts. District judges rejected Paxton’s efforts to block the program.

The 15th Court of Appeals also denied the state’s request for emergency relief earlier this year. In that ruling, the court said the state had not shown that the program caused actual harm to Harris County residents or Texas.

The appeals court also noted that Texas has recognized legal help for low-income people in civil cases as a public service. Immigration court is civil, not criminal, although deportation cases can carry major consequences for families.

The Texas Supreme Court’s new order changes the program’s status for now. However, it does not settle the larger constitutional question.

What the Program Does

Harris County created the Immigrant Legal Services Fund in 2020. The county initially allocated $2.5 million to help people facing immigration proceedings.

The program has worked with organizations including BakerRipley, the Galveston-Houston Immigrant Representation Project, Justice for All Immigrants, KIND and the Refugee and Immigrant Center for Education and Legal Service.

According to court findings reported by The Texas Tribune, the program has helped 373 people over five years. Many closed cases ended in removal or voluntary departure from the United States.

Supporters say the program helps people understand their rights and responsibilities in immigration court. Opponents say county tax dollars should not fund legal defense in deportation cases.

Court Battle Still Continues

The pause leaves the program’s future uncertain. The Texas Supreme Court ordered the appeals court to continue reviewing the case.

That means Harris County’s immigrant legal services funding could remain frozen until the courts issue further direction. A final ruling could affect similar local programs across Texas.

For immigrant families and service providers, the immediate impact is clear. Legal aid tied to the Harris County program cannot move forward while the temporary order remains in place.

Supergirl Box Office Outlook Softens as Critic Ratings Come In Mixed

“Supergirl” opened in theaters Friday with a cautious box office outlook and mixed critic ratings. The Supergirl box office forecast now points to a softer start than DC Studios likely hoped for after last year’s “Superman” reboot.

The Warner Bros. release stars Milly Alcock as Kara Zor-El, also known as Supergirl. Craig Gillespie directed the film, which is part of the new DC Universe led by James Gunn and Peter Safran.

Supergirl Box Office Tracking Points to Soft Opening

As of Friday morning, final opening-day grosses had not yet been posted by Box Office Mojo. The site listed “Supergirl” as a June 26, 2026, domestic release, with domestic, international, and worldwide totals still blank.

Industry tracking suggests the film could open below earlier expectations. Deadline reported a projected domestic opening of about $40 million to $50 million.

MarketWatch also described the debut as underwhelming for the DC reboot. The outlet noted that the film follows “Superman,” which helped rebuild momentum for Warner Bros. and DC last year.

That comparison matters because “Supergirl” is not a small release. It carries a reported production budget around $170 million before marketing, according to multiple industry reports.

Critic Ratings Show a Divided Response

Critics have not rejected “Supergirl,” but they have not fully embraced it either. Rotten Tomatoes listed the movie at 59% on the Tomatometer and 77% on the Popcornmeter in its first-review roundup.

Metacritic showed a score of 50 out of 100, based on 49 critic reviews. The site classified the response as “mixed or average.”

That puts “Supergirl” in a difficult position. The film has enough praise to avoid a total critical collapse. However, the ratings may not be strong enough to create major urgency among casual moviegoers.

For a superhero film opening in a crowded summer market, that gap can matter. Strong word of mouth often helps a movie hold through its second weekend.

Milly Alcock Earns Praise Despite Uneven Reviews

Many critics singled out Alcock as the film’s strongest element. Rotten Tomatoes summarized the early reviews by saying the movie may not be the summer’s must-see blockbuster, but Alcock makes the most of the role.

The film also features Jason Momoa as Lobo. His appearance has drawn attention because it marks a new DC role after his years as Aquaman.

The story follows Kara Zor-El on an interstellar journey of vengeance and justice. The movie is rated PG-13 and runs one hour and 48 minutes.

Several reviews praised the cast and some action sequences. Others criticized the script, tone, and pacing.

DC Faces Another Test With Audiences

The performance of “Supergirl” will be closely watched because DC Studios is still building its new slate. “Superman” gave the franchise a cleaner launch point, but “Supergirl” now tests whether that momentum can spread beyond Clark Kent.

A lower opening does not automatically mean the film will fail. A strong audience response could still help the movie over several weeks.

Still, the early signs are mixed. The box office projections are modest, and the critic ratings suggest a film that divides viewers more than it unites them.

For moviegoers, “Supergirl” arrives as a superhero film with a praised lead performance and a less certain overall reception. Its next test will come from audiences filling theaters through the weekend.

Pirates of the Caribbean Disneyland Reopens With New Treasure Grotto Magic

Pirates of the Caribbean Disneyland reopens Friday, June 26, with a new effect inside one of the attraction’s most famous scenes. Guests sailing through the New Orleans Square ride will now see a pirate transform from a living buccaneer into a skeleton while sitting on cursed gold.

The update adds new technology to the treasure-filled grotto, a classic part of the Anaheim attraction. The scene has long featured skeletal pirates, eerie treasure, and the famous warning that “dead men tell no tales.”

Pirates of the Caribbean Disneyland Adds New Grotto Effect

The new figure appears in the treasure grotto, where guests pass piles of gold and remnants of cursed pirates. For the first time, the scene includes a pirate who visibly changes before riders’ eyes.

The effect shows the character shifting from flesh and blood into a skeleton. The transformation is designed to happen in real time as boats move through the scene.

Disneyland’s official attraction page describes the grotto as a place where pirate treasure remains “eternally guarded” by those who captured it. The new figure builds on that story by showing the curse in action.

The change gives the classic scene a stronger visual payoff. It also keeps the ride’s original ghostly tone while adding a modern layer of showmanship.

New Audio-Animatronics Technology Drives the Transformation

The effect was developed by the Walt Disney Imagineering Research and Development team. It uses advanced Audio-Animatronics technology paired with real-time front projection.

The figure includes a mechanical head that supports expressive movement. Projection technology then adds changing visual details to the face and body.

Together, the systems create the illusion of a pirate decaying into skeletal form. The result is meant to feel physical, not just digital.

This type of technology gives Imagineers more tools for storytelling. It allows a figure to change appearance while still existing as a dimensional character in the set.

A Classic Disneyland Ride Gets a Modern Touch

Pirates of the Caribbean opened at Disneyland in 1967. It remains one of the park’s most recognized attractions and one of the last major rides developed during Walt Disney’s lifetime.

The Disneyland version is located in New Orleans Square. Guests board boats and travel through caverns, pirate battles, a raided town, and treasure-filled scenes.

Over the years, Disney has updated parts of the ride while preserving its core identity. Previous changes included refreshed scenes and characters connected to the “Pirates of the Caribbean” film franchise.

The new treasure grotto figure continues that tradition. It updates the experience without replacing the attraction’s familiar atmosphere.

Reopening Comes After Refurbishment

The June 26 reopening follows a refurbishment period for the Disneyland attraction. Fans had been watching closely for the return date because Pirates of the Caribbean remains a major draw for park visitors.

The reopening also arrives during the busy summer travel season. That timing gives many guests a chance to see the new effect during peak vacation months.

For longtime fans, the update offers a fresh reason to revisit a classic ride. For first-time visitors, it adds another memorable moment to one of Disneyland’s signature boat attractions.

The new transformation effect shows how Disney continues to blend nostalgia with new technology. Pirates of the Caribbean Disneyland now returns with a familiar song, a cursed treasure room, and a new piece of magic waiting in the dark.

Pirates of the Caribbean at Disneyland park in Anaheim, Calif., has reopened with new magic to one of the attraction’s classic scenes: the treasure-filled grotto. Guests floating past this scene witness a pirate sitting atop a pile of cursed gold transform from a flesh-and-blood buccaneer to a skeleton right before their eyes. (Christian Thompson/Disneyland Resort)

C.J. Gardner-Johnson Says Clash With “GM’s Friend” Led to Texans Release

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C.J. Gardner-Johnson is offering a new explanation for his short stay in Houston. The veteran safety says the C.J. Gardner-Johnson Texans release stemmed from a training camp confrontation involving a person he described as the “GM’s friend.”

The comments came in an interview with Tim Graham of The Athletic. NBC Sports and Chron reported details from the interview Friday.

C.J. Gardner-Johnson Texans Release Gets New Context

The Texans acquired Gardner-Johnson from the Philadelphia Eagles in March 2025. The move brought Houston a proven defensive back who had just helped Philadelphia win a Super Bowl.

However, his time with the Texans ended quickly. Houston released him in September after only three regular-season games.

At the time, the move surprised many NFL observers. Gardner-Johnson had started all three games for Houston and had 15 tackles.

The Texans did not give a detailed public explanation for the release. Reports later pointed to friction behind the scenes and questions about his fit in DeMeco Ryans’ defensive system.

Gardner-Johnson Points to Training Camp Incident

Gardner-Johnson now says the trouble started before the season. He told The Athletic that a confrontation occurred during training camp at The Greenbrier in West Virginia.

According to Chron, Gardner-Johnson said the person involved was a friend of Texans general manager Nick Caserio. He said the person insulted him, which led to his reaction.

Gardner-Johnson connected that incident to the team’s decision to move on. The release happened several weeks later, after Houston opened the season 0-3.

The safety’s account adds another layer to a move that already drew attention. It also gives his side of a situation that Houston has not fully addressed in public.

Texans Had Other Reported Concerns

Earlier reporting suggested the Texans had football-related concerns, too. ESPN reported after the release that Gardner-Johnson had struggled to pick up Ryans’ defensive scheme.

Other reports said he wanted a different role and had voiced concerns about his usage. Those issues reportedly added tension during Houston’s rough start.

Gardner-Johnson had arrived with a strong reputation as a playmaker. He led the NFL with six interceptions in 2022 and matched that total again with Philadelphia in 2024.

Still, Houston cut ties instead of attempting to trade him. That made the decision more notable across the league.

Houston Moved Forward After Slow Start

The Texans eventually recovered from their winless start. Houston turned its season around and made another playoff push.

Gardner-Johnson also moved forward. He later continued his NFL career and is now with the Buffalo Bills, according to Chron.

His latest comments may not change Houston’s decision. However, they help explain why a high-profile offseason addition lasted only three games.

For Texans fans, the story is a reminder that roster moves are rarely about one factor. Performance, scheme fit, communication, and locker room trust can all shape a player’s future.

John Bolton Guilty Plea Resolves Classified Information Case

Former Trump national security adviser John Bolton pleaded guilty Friday to unlawfully retaining classified information. The John Bolton guilty plea narrows a case that once included 18 criminal counts tied to national defense information.

Bolton entered the plea in federal court in Greenbelt, Maryland. Sentencing is scheduled for Oct. 28 before U.S. District Judge Theodore Chuang.

John Bolton Guilty Plea Centers on Classified Records

The guilty plea involves one count of unlawfully retaining national defense information. Prosecutors had accused Bolton of keeping sensitive material after leaving government service.

Bolton served as national security adviser during President Donald Trump’s first term. He held the position from April 2018 to September 2019.

The case focused partly on notes and records connected to Bolton’s time in the White House. Prosecutors said some material included classified national security information.

Bolton later published a 2020 memoir, “The Room Where It Happened.” The book sharply criticized Trump and drew legal scrutiny before its release.

Plea Deal Could Limit Prison Time

Under the plea agreement, Bolton faces a possible sentence of up to five years in prison. The deal also includes a fine of up to $2.25 million.

The judge does not have to follow the agreement. However, Bolton may be allowed to withdraw his plea if the sentence goes beyond the deal’s limits.

The Associated Press reported that the agreement could allow Bolton to avoid prison time. Sentencing will determine the final punishment.

The plea ends the risk of a trial that could have involved highly sensitive national security evidence. It also closes a major legal chapter for one of Trump’s most prominent former advisers and later critics.

Original Case Included 18 Counts

Bolton was indicted in October 2025 on 18 counts. The charges included unlawful retention and transmission of national defense information.

Federal authorities accused him of keeping classified records at his Maryland home and Washington, D.C., office. Investigators also examined claims that sensitive information had been shared through personal accounts.

The Justice Department said at the time that the case involved serious allegations about mishandled classified material. Bolton had previously denied wrongdoing.

The guilty plea reduces the case to one admitted offense. It also avoids a longer court fight over the full indictment.

Case Adds to Classified Documents Scrutiny

The case comes after years of national attention on classified documents and former government officials. Federal law requires sensitive national defense information to be handled under strict security rules.

Officials with access to classified material must follow those rules after leaving office. Violations can lead to criminal charges, even if documents are not publicly released.

Bolton’s case drew attention because of his long record in Republican foreign policy circles. He also served as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations under President George W. Bush.

The next major step is sentencing on Oct. 28. Until then, the case remains a reminder that classified information rules apply long after public service ends.

12-Year-Old Girl Finds Mother and Stepfather Dead in Tomball Murder-Suicide Investigation

A Tomball murder-suicide investigation is underway after a 12-year-old girl reportedly found her mother unresponsive late Thursday night. Deputies later found the girl’s mother and stepfather dead inside a northwest Harris County home.

Tomball Murder-Suicide Investigation Underway

The incident happened around 11 p.m. Thursday in the 12500 block of Baldwin Springs Court, according to authorities.

The child called 911 after finding her mother unresponsive. When deputies and emergency medical crews arrived, they found the girl physically unharmed outside the home.

Investigators then found a woman dead inside the residence. A man was found dead in a separate room.

Officials said the woman was believed to be the girl’s biological mother. The man was believed to be her stepfather.

Deputies Say Two Adults Lived at the Home

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office said all three people had lived at the home for some time. Officials had not publicly released the names of the two adults as of Friday morning.

Investigators said there were no signs of forced entry. They also said early evidence did not suggest another person was involved.

Authorities said the man had an apparent gunshot wound. The woman had stab wounds.

The official causes of death remain under investigation. The Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences is expected to make final determinations.

Child Found Physically Unharmed

Deputies said the 12-year-old girl was not physically injured. Authorities did not release further details about her condition or where she was taken after the call.

Early information indicated the girl had been asleep before finding her mother. She later found her stepfather in another room.

Investigators have not released more details about the child’s current care. They also have not identified other family members involved.

Prior Domestic Violence Questions Remain

Investigators are reviewing surveillance video and speaking with neighbors. They are also working to determine whether deputies had been called to the home before.

Authorities have not confirmed any prior domestic violence calls at the residence.

Officials have not announced a motive. They also have not confirmed whether the case involved a history of family violence.

The investigation remains active. Authorities are expected to release more information after next of kin notifications and further evidence review.

Community Resources Available

Cases involving suspected family violence can affect relatives, neighbors and entire communities. Local advocates encourage anyone facing abuse or threats to seek help as early as possible.

The National Domestic Violence Hotline is available at 1-800-799-7233. People can also text “START” to 88788.

Anyone in immediate danger should call 911.

The Tomball murder-suicide investigation remains a developing case. Community members with relevant information can contact the Harris County Sheriff’s Office as detectives continue reviewing what happened.