Benbrook Community Mourns Loss of Local Educator.

Apr 21, 2026 5:05 PM

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BENBROOK, TX — What began as a quiet Friday evening in a Benbrook neighborhood ended in a loss that is now being felt across classrooms, hallways, and homes throughout Fort Worth ISD.

Lindsay Velasquez, a 42-year-old assistant principal at Luella Merrett Elementary, died April 17 after a shooting at a home on the 1000 block of Sproles Drive.

Police say officers responded around 7:30 p.m. to reports of an accidental shooting and found Velasquez unresponsive with a gunshot wound. She was transported to Harris Methodist Hospital, where she was later pronounced dead. The Tarrant County Medical Examiner’s Office ruled the cause of death a gunshot wound to the head.

Alberto Velasquez, 39, was taken into custody Friday night and is facing a manslaughter charge. As of Tuesday, he had been released from the Tarrant County Jail after posting the $35,000 bond. Authorities have not released details about what led to the shooting, and the investigation is ongoing.

For those who knew Lindsay Velasquez, the headlines only tell part of the story.

At Luella Merrett Elementary, she spent the past two years building relationships with students, supporting teachers, and helping create a school culture where kids felt seen. She played a role in programs that celebrated student achievement, from academic awards to weekly recognitions that encouraged consistency and effort.

Friends and family describe her as steady, caring, and deeply devoted to her three daughters. A memorial fundraiser has been created to support her family and help cover funeral costs. Those wishing to contribute can do so at GoFundMe for Lindsay Velasquez memorial.

Fort Worth ISD acknowledged the loss in a statement, calling it a tragic off-campus incident and sharing that counselors and support staff are available for students and employees. The district asked for privacy for the family as the investigation continues.

In a community built on connection, it is often the everyday presence of people like Velasquez that leaves the deepest mark. This week, that absence is being felt in ways that are hard to put into words.