Family says 17-year-old struggled with mental health issues before fatally shooting his father, injuring his mother

CUT AND SHOOT, Texas – A teenager is now in custody after allegedly killing his father and seriously injuring his mother in a shooting following an argument at the family’s Montgomery County home.

The shooting happened in the Deer Pines subdivision near Conroe on Wednesday around 9:20 p.m.

The teen was identified as 17-year-old Tra Vontay Constantine. He reportedly turned himself in to the Montgomery County Jail and was charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and murder.

Police said when they arrived at the home Wednesday evening, they found the boy’s father suffering from a gunshot wound. Doctors tried to take life-saving measures, but without success. The father has since been identified as 41-year-old Leroy Constantine Jr.

Authorities also said the teen also shot his mother. She was taken to the hospital and is expected to be fine. KPRC2 reporter Corley Peel spoke with the teen’s mother, Romika Constantine. Romika said she was trying to figure everything out.

Tra Vontay Constantine’s grandmother, Degerine Spikes, said her daughter, Romika and Leroy, were high school sweethearts. She said the couple had a love story that few people could write.

“They’ve been together for 29 years,” Spikes said.

She said that Romika rushed to save Leroy after they were both shot by their son.

“When she was shot, the bullet passed through her and hit her in the neck. She stood outside for a minute and crawled over to help him. That’s how real their love was,” Spikes said.

Spikes said her grandson struggled with mental health issues.

“My grandson, they did everything they could. They did everything they could to help him with his mental problems. I mean, they fought for him. He visited different facilities and such to try to get help,” Spikes said.

She said Leroy was a loving father, grandfather and husband who would help anyone in need.

“He had a smile that was out of the ordinary. He had a kind spirit when you meet him, you never forget him because he’s always smiling,” Spikes said.

She said her grandson’s real self is more like his father’s. Caring and kind.

“We love him. We’re going to miss him. I love my grandson and he needs help,” Spikes said.

Spikes said Leroy and Romika had three children and four adopted children. Their family is asking for the community’s prayers during this difficult time.

Tra Vontay is being held in the Montgomery County Jail on $250,000 bail.