On May 1, 2023, at approximately 5:38 p.m., the Austin Police Department (APD) and Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services (ATCEMS) responded to a reported disturbance at the Legends Lake Creek apartment complex, located at 10015 Lake Creek Parkway in northwest Austin. A neighbor had reported hearing a couple arguing, followed by several gunshots.
Upon entering the apartment, officers discovered 55-year-old Joyce Pingul Clarke with gunshot wounds.
In a back bedroom, they found her husband, 56-year-old Gary Clarke, also suffering from a gunshot wound. Both individuals were pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators determined that Gary Clarke had fatally shot his wife before taking his own life, classifying the incident as a murder-suicide. This case was recorded as Austin's 27th homicide of 2023.
Joyce Clarke, née Pingul, was born on May 14, 1967, in Manila, Philippines, and later grew up in Dumont, New Jersey. She was known as a devoted daughter, sister, aunt, and friend, cherished by all who knew her. At the time of her passing, she was employed as a Project Coordinator with Korn-Ferry Business Consulting in Houston, Texas.
In the wake of this tragedy, authorities urged anyone with additional information to contact the Austin Police Department or submit tips anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program.
This incident highlights the pervasive issue of domestic violence, underscoring the importance of community awareness and intervention in preventing such tragedies.
