Natalia Monet Cox, a 21-year-old African American woman, tragically lost her life on March 31, 2021, in Austin, Texas. She was a senior at Huston-Tillotson University, studying Biology with aspirations of becoming a plastic surgeon. Natalia was known for her dedication to community service, her involvement in various organizations, and her passion for helping others.
The circumstances surrounding her death were harrowing.
Natalia had recently met a man named Henry Keith Watson Jr., 24, and they had gone on a couple of dates. On the night of her death, Watson showed up uninvited at Natalia's apartment with a gun. Natalia, fearing for her safety, called the police and attempted to calm Watson down through FaceTime. Despite her efforts, Watson broke into her apartment and shot her. Natalia was found with multiple gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Austin Police Department swiftly responded to the incident and arrested Watson shortly after. He was charged with first-degree felony murder. During the investigation, it was revealed that Watson had previously made threats against Natalia, and she had reported him to the police before the fatal incident. Watson was later found incompetent to stand trial and was sent to a mental health facility.
Natalia's family has since filed a lawsuit against the apartment complex management, claiming negligence in handling the situation and failing to provide adequate security measures. They hope that their daughter's tragic death will bring about changes to protect other tenants in similar situations.
Natalia Monet Cox's legacy lives on through the impact she made on her community and the lives she touched. Her dedication to service and her compassionate nature continue to inspire those who knew her.
