On June 16, 2016, 14-year-old Ariel Ratliff was tragically killed in her home in Houston, Texas. The incident occurred around 2:45 a.m. in the 15100 block of Alkay Street. Ariel was shot in the head and died at the scene. Her mother, Sandtrece Ratliff, 44, was also shot and later pronounced dead at Ben Taub General Hospital.
The suspect in this case is Ariel's father, Michael Ratliff, 43.
Initially, Michael claimed he shot his wife and daughter in self-defense, stating that they attacked him with knives. However, after a thorough investigation, authorities determined that Michael did not act in self-defense. He was arrested and charged with capital murder. During the investigation, a witness who had been talking to Ariel via FaceTime on the night of the incident reported hearing arguments in the background.
The case drew significant attention due to the nature of the crime and the tragic loss of a young life. Ariel was described by family members as a bright teenager with aspirations of attending college. The community was deeply affected by the incident, and the family struggled to come to terms with the unexpected and violent loss.
Michael Ratliff's bail was denied, and he faced trial for the capital murder of his wife and daughter. The court proceedings revealed inconsistencies in Michael's self-defense claim, and the medical examiner's report supported the conclusion that the deaths were homicides. The case highlighted issues of domestic violence and the devastating impact it can have on families.
The tragic death of Ariel Ratliff remains a poignant reminder of the importance of addressing domestic violence and providing support to those affected by it. The community continues to remember Ariel and honor her memory through various tributes and remembrance events.
