Dad Kills Daughter, 6, and Her Mom in Premeditated Parking Lot Attack

The 30-year-old father lured the victims to the stadium under the pretense of providing money before opening fire.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 7:55am

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A 30-year-old man named John Mbuyi lured his 6-year-old daughter Nathy and her mother Raissa Thatukila, 33, to a stadium parking lot in Haltom City, Texas under the pretense of giving them money. Mbuyi then shot and killed both of them in what police described as a premeditated attack. After the shootings, Mbuyi took his own life.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the dangers of domestic violence and custody disputes, which can escalate to deadly violence. It also raises questions about mental health support and intervention for individuals exhibiting concerning behaviors prior to committing acts of violence.

The details

According to police, Mbuyi got out of a U-Haul truck and shot Thatukila and Nathy while they were sitting in their car. Authorities said Mbuyi had 'significant grievances' toward Thatukila, the mother of his child, amid an ongoing custody dispute. After the shootings, Mbuyi turned the gun on himself and died later at a hospital.

  • The incident occurred on Friday, March 31, 2026 in the parking lot of Birdville stadium in Haltom City, Texas.
  • Police said Mbuyi had expressed 'concerning thoughts' about death prior to the shooting.

The players

John Mbuyi

A 30-year-old man who lured his 6-year-old daughter and her mother to a stadium parking lot and shot them dead before taking his own life.

Raissa Thatukila

The 33-year-old mother of Mbuyi's child, who was killed by Mbuyi in the parking lot attack.

Nathy Mbuyi

Mbuyi's 6-year-old daughter, who was also killed in the parking lot shooting.

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What they’re saying

“It's just heart-wrenching to know that something like that happened at our job. I just hope it wasn't one of the kids from our buses. Because, these kids, I know for me, they're my kids.”

— Jacque Hall, Bus driver

What’s next

Police are continuing to investigate the incident and the circumstances surrounding the custody dispute between Mbuyi and Thatukila.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the need for greater mental health support and intervention to prevent domestic violence from escalating to deadly violence, especially when children are involved in custody disputes.