Authorities are investigating a horrific domestic violence case after a man allegedly shot and killed his girlfriend, then sent graphic photos of her body to a family member—along with threats aimed at the victim’s relatives.
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The suspect, identified as Micheal Ellis, had been in a relationship with Lazette King for six years.
King’s family describes the relationship as emotionally volatile and unpredictable, raising questions about signs of escalating danger that may have gone unnoticed or unaddressed.
“It was volatile. It wasn’t the best of relationships, one that we would hope people would get away from. But that didn’t happen, and here we are now.” said Shatina Thompson, King’s sister.
A History of Violence
Ellis has a documented criminal history spanning years, including at least six drug-related charges for possession of crack cocaine and four assault charges—two involving family members. His most recent assault charge was in 2018, for which he pleaded guilty.
It remains unclear whether any of those charges involved Lazette King, but her family told KPRC that warning signs were always present.
A relative also shared that Ellis was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia and may not have been taking his medication at the time of the killing.
Mental Health and Missed Warnings
Trauma therapist Chau Nguyen emphasized the importance of recognizing patterns of abusive behavior—even when years have passed since the last known violent incident.
“Maybe things were well, but there had to be signs,” Nguyen said. “There are predictors to violence—whether it’s a history of assaults, police calls, or friends hearing something. Those are red flags, and violence can be prevented.”
Children Left Behind
King leaves behind two children, ages 19 and 10. Authorities confirmed neither child was home at the time of the murder.
Nguyen stressed that children living in volatile environments should be encouraged to speak up—especially when adults fail to seek help themselves.
“Volatility is violence,” she said. “Children who witness violence can become victims or perpetrators themselves. They may face long-term consequences like depression or anxiety. That’s why it’s critical to let them know they can talk to someone—anyone. A teacher. A friend. Anyone who can help.”
Conspiracy and Crisis
One relative believes Ellis may have been experiencing a psychotic episode at the time of the murder. According to family members, Ellis had recently become consumed by conspiracy theories and was convinced Lazette King was working with the government to harm him.
The case remains under investigation.