Tragedy Highlights Need for Improved Mental Health Resources in Travis County

The recent killing of a 21-year-old woman in Travis County on Tuesday has brought attention to the need for improved mental health resources in the area. Various groups have emphasized the importance of having access to mental health care, especially in situations like this one.

Court records indicate that a 19-year-old, Keziah Titus, has been accused of killing her 21-year-old relative inside their home in northeast Austin. Deputies arrested Titus on murder charges, and her arrest affidavit details a violent incident where she admitted to killing one family member, attempting to kill another, and planning to kill one more. She called 911 stating that her mission was to assassinate somebody, but it went wrong.

Additional court records reveal that Titus had been arrested in April 2023 on misdemeanor family violence charges. She was able to post bond and get out of jail within three days, with one of the conditions being mental health supervision. However, the specifics of the mental health resources provided to her cannot be disclosed by the County Attorney’s Office due to limitations in resources.

The office has emphasized the need for a mental health diversion center in Travis County, underscoring the importance of such facilities in situations like Titus’. As of now, Titus does not have an attorney listed, but any updates on the case will be provided by KXAN.