Houston Man Charged with Murder After Wife, Kristen Chavez, Found Dead – Chance Zane Chavez Arrested; Family Seeks Help Locating Missing Dogs

Houston, TX – March 13, 2025 – The quiet residential neighborhood on Emma Forest Street in Houston was rocked by a devastating and tragic event on March 12, 2025, as 32-year-old Kristen Chavez was found dead in her home under horrific circumstances. Her husband, 34-year-old Chance Zane Chavez, has been charged with her murder after Houston Police Department (HPD) officers discovered her lifeless body, which had suffered blunt force trauma. In addition to seeking justice for Kristen, her family is also desperately searching for two of her missing dogs, which were not found at the scene, and have urged the community to help in locating them.

A Disturbance Call Leads to Discovery of Tragedy

The sequence of events began early on the morning of March 12 when HPD received an emergency call reporting a disturbance at a residence on Emma Forest Street in Houston. Police dispatchers had no way of knowing the full extent of the situation when they sent officers to investigate, but what they would find would leave them, and the community, in shock.

When officers arrived at the scene shortly after 5:30 a.m., they encountered Chance Zane Chavez, who was reportedly covered in blood. The authorities quickly secured him for questioning, and upon further investigation, they entered the home to assess the situation. It was then that they made the grim discovery: inside the bedroom of the residence, they found the body of Kristen Chavez.

Kristen, a 32-year-old woman, had sustained severe blunt force trauma. According to medical personnel and police reports, she was pronounced dead at the scene. The nature of the injuries indicated a violent and brutal attack, making it clear that her death was not accidental.

The victim’s family, who are still in a state of shock and grief, were devastated by the loss. Family members have expressed disbelief that someone they trusted and loved could have been responsible for taking Kristen’s life. While they are still grappling with the pain of losing a daughter, sister, and friend, they are also desperately trying to understand what led to this tragedy and what circumstances might have led Chance Zane Chavez to commit such an act.

Chance Zane Chavez Arrested and Charged with Murder

Chance Zane Chavez, the 34-year-old husband of the victim, was immediately arrested after Kristen’s body was discovered. HPD detectives formally charged him with murder following their investigation at the scene. Chavez was taken into custody without incident and remains behind bars as the investigation continues.

While the details surrounding the motive for the killing remain unclear, investigators have noted that there were no immediate signs of forced entry into the home, which could suggest that the attack may have been committed by someone Kristen knew well. The circumstances surrounding the crime, including Chavez’s condition when he was apprehended—covered in blood—have left many questions unanswered, but authorities are working diligently to piece together the events that led up to the murder.

HPD detectives have continued to investigate the case, working to determine the full extent of the relationship between Kristen and Chance Zane Chavez. They are exploring all possible leads, including examining any potential history of domestic disputes, prior incidents, or any information that might shed light on why this violent crime took place. Investigators are being cautious about releasing further details, likely to preserve the integrity of the case and ensure that the proper legal process unfolds.

As the investigation continues, the Houston Police Department has urged anyone with information to come forward, emphasizing the importance of even the smallest detail. They have also expressed their commitment to bringing justice to Kristen Chavez’s family and loved ones, who are now left to pick up the pieces of a life that was senselessly cut short.

Family’s Plea for Missing Dogs

As authorities continue to search for answers in the case of Kristen Chavez’s murder, her family has expressed another heartbreaking concern: the whereabouts of her two missing dogs. According to family members, the dogs were not located at the scene during the investigation, raising the possibility that they could be important to understanding the circumstances surrounding Kristen’s death.

The missing pets, both of which were beloved members of Kristen’s household, have been the subject of an intense search by Kristen’s family. Their absence raises several questions, including whether they could have witnessed something that could provide critical clues to the investigation or whether they were taken in an attempt to obscure evidence or delay the discovery of the crime.

Kristen’s family has issued a public plea, asking for anyone who may have seen the dogs or has any information about their whereabouts to contact law enforcement immediately. They are hoping that the missing dogs could offer some insight into what happened in those final, tragic moments before Kristen’s death.

Authorities have also urged the public to be on the lookout for the dogs, who may have been abandoned or may be hiding in nearby areas. The missing dogs are described as a [specific breed of dog] and [another specific breed of dog], both of which were known to be very loyal to Kristen. Their disappearance, along with the violent death of their owner, has only deepened the sorrow of the family, who are now grappling with the fear that they may never see these beloved pets again.

The Community Reacts to the Tragedy

News of Kristen Chavez’s death and the arrest of her husband has spread quickly throughout the Houston community, leaving many residents in a state of disbelief. Kristen was well-known in the area, and many neighbors have expressed shock at the news. Some describe her as friendly and hardworking, while others recall her as a caring pet owner who was deeply devoted to her two dogs.

“This is just heartbreaking,” said one of Kristen’s neighbors, who spoke on the condition of anonymity. “I never would have thought something like this could happen here. It’s so sad.”

Community members who knew Kristen say she was a fixture in local social circles and that the idea of a violent incident involving her and her husband was almost unthinkable. For many, the news has raised concerns about domestic violence and the hidden dangers that can exist behind closed doors, where often, the signs are not immediately apparent.

The investigation into Kristen’s murder has also sparked conversations within the community about the need for greater awareness of the signs of abuse or potential violence in relationships, and how sometimes those signs can go unnoticed until it’s too late.

Questions Surrounding the Motive for the Murder

As police continue their investigation into the circumstances surrounding Kristen Chavez’s death, one of the most pressing questions is the motive behind the brutal murder. While it is still too early to draw definitive conclusions, there are several factors that law enforcement officials are likely considering.

At this point, authorities have not revealed any definitive details regarding whether there was a history of domestic violence between Kristen and Chance Zane Chavez, or if there were any prior incidents that might suggest a motive. It is also unclear whether there had been any recent arguments or conflicts that could have escalated to violence. The couple had been married for several years, and there were no immediate signs from neighbors or acquaintances that would indicate any prior warning signs of trouble in their relationship.

Further investigation into the couple’s personal history and communications may provide additional insight into what triggered such a violent and tragic event. Detectives are likely reviewing phone records, text messages, and any other forms of communication that may shed light on the events leading up to the murder.

It is also possible that authorities may look into the financial situation of the couple, as money-related stressors have been known to contribute to domestic violence in some cases. However, at this stage, law enforcement has cautioned that they are not ruling out any possibilities and are continuing to explore every avenue of investigation.

Ongoing Investigation and Public Appeal for Information

As the investigation into Kristen Chavez’s murder continues, the Houston Police Department has made it clear that they are leaving no stone unturned. Detectives are conducting interviews with friends, family members, and anyone who may have had contact with Kristen or Chance Zane Chavez in the days leading up to the tragic event. They are also reviewing surveillance footage from the area and continuing to search for any evidence that could provide a clearer understanding of what happened that morning.

In addition to seeking information about the missing dogs, law enforcement has asked the public to come forward with any additional information regarding the case. They are urging anyone who may have witnessed unusual activity in the area, or anyone who may have seen Chance Zane Chavez or Kristen Chavez in the days leading up to the murder, to contact the police.

The HPD tip line is open for those who have any information, and authorities have assured the public that all tips will be thoroughly investigated.

The Road Ahead for Kristen’s Family

For Kristen Chavez’s family, the pain of her sudden and violent death is compounded by the uncertainty surrounding the circumstances of her murder. They are now forced to cope with the immense grief of losing a loved one in such a horrific way, all while struggling with the anguish of not knowing why it happened or what events led up to the tragedy.

Family members have expressed their desire to honor Kristen’s memory by seeking justice for her death and ensuring that her husband, Chance Zane Chavez, is held accountable for his actions. They also remain hopeful that the investigation will uncover the truth and provide some clarity regarding the missing dogs.

In the meantime, the Houston community continues to rally around Kristen’s family, offering support, condolences, and a sense of solidarity during this incredibly difficult time. The hope is that, through perseverance and the cooperation of the public, justice will prevail for Kristen Chavez and her family.

A Final Plea for Help

As the investigation into the murder of Kristen Chavez unfolds, her family has made a final plea to the public: If anyone has seen the missing dogs or has any information that could help in the investigation, they are encouraged to contact the Houston Police Department. The family is also asking for privacy as they cope with this unimaginable loss, but they are hopeful that the community will rally together to help bring justice to Kristen and locate her beloved pets.

The Houston Police Department remains committed to bringing the case to a close and ensuring that those responsible for Kristen’s death face the full consequences of their actions. As the investigation continues, the Chavez family, along with the entire community, awaits answers.