Texas Mom Dies After Brutal Hammer Attack by Schizophrenic Son

The son of a 69-year-old Texas woman was charged with her brutal murder.

Curtis Peavy was at his bowling league when he received an unimaginable phone call from his stepson, letting him know something had happened.

“I was kind of numb to the fact at first, and so forth, that I just didn't feel anything at first,” Peavy said.

Peavy's stepson had discovered his stepmother, Eva Peavy, dead in their garage.

DEPUTIES DETAIN VICTIM'S BIOLOGICAL SON

When Harris County deputies arrived they learned that Eva's biological son was in the home and had been acting 'strangely' and carrying around a hammer.

“When deputies arrived, he put it down and cooperated and was detained without incident,” HCSO Sgt. Ritchie said.

MENTAL HEALTH AND VIOLENT ISSUES REVEALED

While speaking with detectives, Curtis revealed that his stepson had some mental health issues. Joseph had been diagnosed as schizophrenic and bipolar. He was supposed to be on medication and had a violent history.

“He got the help. He was in rehab for a little while. He was supposed to have been on his meds,” Peavy explained.

Joseph had spent some time in a rehabilitation center after assaulting his mother, Eva. “I told my wife after he attacked her the first time when he tried choking her, my mom was there and came to her rescue,” Peavy said.

Peavy said they tried getting Joseph help but he urged his wife to keep him in rehab for a little long. However, Eva said, "he's gonna be alright."

“That's her son, but I raised him. I mean, I was the only dad in his life.”

Deputies believe the hammer Joseph was holding could be the murder weapon used on Eva. An autopsy is currently being done to reveal the true cause of death.