Clifton Achterberg, a 34-year-old male of Caucasian ethnicity, tragically died on June 11, 2018, in Katy, Texas. The incident occurred at his family home on 11th Street near Katyland Drive. Clifton, who was also known as Clif, was involved in a heated dispute with his mother, Gail Achterberg, 62, during which he threatened her with a small sledgehammer. His brother, Walter Achterberg, 31, witnessed the altercation and responded by shooting Clifton in the back with a pistol.
The bullet exited Clifton's chest and struck his mother in the arm. Clifton was pronounced dead at the scene, while his mother was treated at a hospital and later released.
Following the incident, Walter was questioned by police but was released after the district attorney declined to file charges. The case was referred to a grand jury to determine whether any charges should be brought against Walter. The dispute that led to Clifton's death was reportedly part of ongoing disturbances involving the family, which had been known to the Katy Police Department for years.
The tragic death of Clifton Achterberg marked the first homicide in Katy since December 2016. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death highlighted the complexities of family disputes and the potential for violence that can arise from such conflicts.
