Leaders stress urgent need for increased mental health services following homicide in Texas county

The recent killing of a 21-year-old woman in Travis County has shed light on the importance of better mental health resources in the area, according to various groups. Court records indicate that a 19-year-old, Keziah Titus, is accused of killing her 21-year-old relative in their northeast Austin home. Titus was arrested on murder charges, and her arrest affidavit details a violent incident where she confessed 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.

In April 2023, Titus was previously arrested on misdemeanor family violence charges and was released on bond within three days. One of the conditions of her bond was that she receive mental health supervision. The Travis County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that resources for mental health care are limited in the area and highlighted the need for a mental health diversion center, which is currently being developed in Travis County.

The County Attorney’s Office is unable to disclose specific information about the mental health care Titus received. Currently, she does not have an attorney listed to represent her. KXAN will provide updates if this changes.