Liberty City, Texas – A tragic incident at Hugh Camp Memorial Park on September 1 left a father and daughter dead, prompting an investigation that has led to the arrest of a young man closely tied to the victims. Christopher Wayne Hicks Jr., 18, has been charged with two counts of murder in connection with the shooting deaths of 49-year-old Shawn Glen Blake and his 16-year-old daughter, Haley Nicole Blake, a student at Sabine Independent School District.
Details surrounding the shooting remain sparse, as investigators continue to piece together what transpired that fateful day. Hicks was taken into custody on September 16 after being hospitalized for injuries he reportedly inflicted on himself during the incident. He has since been held in Gregg County Jail, with bail set at $1 million for each murder charge.
Investigator Tyler Myers of the Gregg County Sheriff’s Office documented the scene shortly after the shooting. Upon arrival, Myers noted two vehicles: a white Cadillac SUV and a red Toyota sedan, both occupied by the deceased. The horrified scene revealed evidence of gunfire, including multiple shell casings and a Smith & Wesson 9mm handgun found near the vehicles.
Testimony from an off-duty police officer who witnessed the aftermath has been particularly revealing. The officer, who was at the park with family members, reported hearing gunshots and observed Hicks struggling with a jammed firearm near the red Toyota. The officer approached in an attempt to disarm him and provide aid. According to the witness, Hicks was facing the handgun toward himself while attempting to correct the malfunction.
Myers’ report painted a grim picture of the scene. Shawn Glen Blake was found lying near the red Toyota, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds, including one at close range. His daughter, Haley, was slumped in the passenger seat of the Cadillac, also showing signs of a fatal gunshot wound to her head. The investigator concluded that the evidence suggested Hicks was responsible for the tragic deaths.
With the case continuing to unfold, members of the community are left grappling with the emotional fallout. The apparent randomness of the violence has drawn concern and grief from neighbors and local officials. As investigations progress, the sheriff’s office is urging anyone with additional information to step forward.
As Hicks remains in custody, the community is seeking answers and justice for Shawn and Haley Blake, whose lives were cut short in a shocking act of violence.