On May 24, 2024, a tragic incident occurred in Bellville, Texas, resulting in the death of 74-year-old Karen McAndrews. The Austin County Sheriff's Office received a 911 call reporting a shooting at a residence in the 700 block of Old Highway 36. Upon arrival, deputies and Bellville Police Department officers found McAndrews inside the home, deceased from an apparent gunshot wound.
At the scene, authorities detained 17-year-old Kody Lowe in the front yard without incident.
Lowe was arrested and charged with murder, then booked into the Austin County Jail. The investigation involved the Austin County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Division, the Texas Rangers, and the Austin County District Attorney's Office.
In late August 2024, the Austin County Grand Jury indicted Lowe for the murder of McAndrews. The indictment followed a thorough investigation by local law enforcement agencies. Lowe remained in custody at the Austin County Jail, awaiting trial.
As of December 2024, the case against Lowe is ongoing, with legal proceedings continuing in Austin County. The community of Bellville remains affected by the tragic loss of McAndrews, as authorities work to bring justice in this case.
