COLLEGE STATION, Texas — A heartbreaking case of domestic violence turned deadly on Tuesday morning, September 16, 2025, when a separated couple lost their lives in a murder-suicide at a local car wash. Police have identified the victims as 40-year-old Katiusca Guedez De Cotiz and 43-year-old Jose Cotiz Escobar Wirmer, both residents of College Station.
The Shooting at Wings Carwash & Washateria
Just before 9:00 a.m., the College Station Police Department (CSPD) received multiple 911 calls about gunfire near Longmire Drive and Deacon Drive. The shooting occurred at Wings Carwash & Washateria, located at 1801 Deacon Drive, where stunned bystanders reported seeing a man and a woman lying unresponsive inside one of the car wash bays.
Responding officers, along with Texas Highway Patrol troopers and College Station Fire Department personnel, rushed to the scene. Despite life-saving efforts, both individuals were pronounced deceased.
According to CSPD, surveillance footage revealed the chilling sequence of events: Katiusca was washing her vehicle when Jose approached. In a desperate attempt to defend herself, she used the high-pressure washer hose to spray directly at him. Moments later, Jose opened fire, fatally shooting her before turning the gun on himself.
Victims Identified
The Brazos County Medical Examiner confirmed the identities of the deceased as:
- Katiusca Guedez De Cotiz, 40, of College Station
- Jose Cotiz Escobar Wirmer, 43, of College Station
Investigators noted the two were married but living separately at the time. Authorities also acknowledged that there had been prior reports and calls involving the couple, though specific details of those earlier incidents have not been released.
Police: An Isolated Incident
College Station Police emphasized that the shooting was an isolated domestic incident and that there is no ongoing threat to the public. “Our hearts go out to the family, friends, and community impacted by this tragedy,” the department said in a statement.
The scene was processed by CSPD’s Criminal Investigations Division and Crime Scene Technicians, who gathered surveillance footage, interviewed witnesses, and collected physical evidence.
A Troubling Pattern of Domestic Violence
This case adds to the alarming number of domestic-related shootings reported across Texas in recent years. Advocates say that violence in estranged relationships can escalate quickly when warning signs go unaddressed.
“Domestic violence is not just a private matter—it is a community issue,” said a representative from a local crisis center. “We must take every report seriously, because situations like this show how quickly they can turn fatal.”
Police Urge Victims to Seek Help
The College Station Police Department is reminding residents that support and protection are available for those in abusive or threatening relationships.
“If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, please contact law enforcement or a local support agency immediately,” CSPD stated. “Help is available, and you are not alone.”
Local organizations such as the Twin City Mission Domestic Violence Services provide emergency shelter, counseling, and legal advocacy for victims. The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) is also available 24/7 for confidential support.
Community Reacts
The shocking nature of the crime has left the College Station community reeling. Many residents expressed sadness that such violence unfolded in a public place, in broad daylight, near a popular local business.
“It’s horrifying to think about what she went through in those final moments,” said one resident who lives near the car wash. “She fought for her life, and it breaks my heart.”
Ongoing Investigation
Detectives will continue reviewing past reports and records related to the couple as they build a clearer timeline of events that led to the shooting. For now, the focus remains on supporting the family members left behind and addressing the wider issue of domestic violence.
Leave a Reply