LUBBOCK, Texas — Authorities are investigating a deadly incident that left five people dead at a home in Plainview, according to an update released Monday afternoon by the Texas Department of Public Safety. The deaths occurred at a residence in the 2700 block of Upchurch Street in the Seth Ward neighborhood, sending shockwaves through the local community.
DPS said the initial call regarding the incident was received at approximately 2:50 a.m. on Saturday, February 7, 2026. Deputies with the Hale County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene and later requested assistance from the Texas Rangers due to the severity of the situation. The Rangers are now leading the investigation as authorities work to piece together what happened inside the home.
Four adults were pronounced deceased at the scene. DPS identified the victims as Hector Alonso Sanchez, 28; Tanya Paola Valadez Rangel, 30; Rosalba Saenz Rodriguez, 47; and Saul Villa, 33. Authorities confirmed that Villa has also been identified as the assailant in the incident, though specific details surrounding his role and actions have not yet been released.
A fifth victim, identified as 21-year-old Reily Joseph Zavala Barrientos, was transported to Covenant Hospital–Plainview, where he was later pronounced deceased. Officials have not disclosed the nature of his injuries or the circumstances that led to his death, citing the ongoing investigation.
Authorities emphasized that there is no threat to the public and described the incident as isolated. DPS officials said investigators are continuing to process the scene, interview potential witnesses, and examine evidence in order to determine the full sequence of events. No information has been released regarding a possible motive or the relationships between the individuals involved.
The tragedy has left the Plainview community grieving as residents struggle to understand how such a devastating event could occur in their neighborhood. Law enforcement officials said additional details will be released as they become available. Anyone with information related to the case is encouraged to contact the Hale County Sheriff’s Office or the Texas Department of Public Safety as the investigation continues.
