Lewisville, Texas – A man has been charged with murder after confessing to fatally shooting a female colleague last week, revealing his obsessive behavior and anger over her work habits had consumed him.
Travis Merrill, 51, was arrested following the incident at Allegiance Trucks in a Lewisville strip mall which also houses the local police department’s interim offices. Currently detained at Denton County jail, Merrill faces charges after admitting to his premeditated attack, claiming he wanted his coworker, Tamhara Collazo, to “feel pain” as he did, police records show.
The tragic event unfolded around 11:30 a.m. last Thursday when Merrill confronted Collazo at her desk upon her return from a lunch break. He allegedly shot her multiple times, following weeks of meticulous planning and practice at his home. According to the officials, Collazo suffered various gunshot wounds classifying her injuries as severe.
Emergency responders attempted lifesaving measures at the scene. Despite their efforts, Collazo succumbed to her injuries after being transported to a nearby hospital.
Merrill’s obsession with Collazo reportedly grew over time as he became increasingly infuriated by what he perceived as her lengthy and unauthorized work breaks, alongside her lack of attention towards him. Police indicated that Collazo had previously reported Merrill’s concerning behavior, leading to mandatory counseling before he was permitted back at the workplace.
Following his counseling, Merrill began acquiring firearms and confessed to police that he had brought them to the office multiple times, restraining himself until he felt the moment was right. Finally, after observing Collazo during her break, he executed his plan to attack as she returned to her cubicle.
The investigation revealed meticulous detail on Merrill’s part, who had kept a log of the timing and duration of Collazo’s breaks, evidencing his obsessive surveillance.
The police discovered two firearms near the crime scene, identified as a Smith and Wesson 686-6 .357 revolver and a Taurus Protector Poly, which are believed to have been used in the fatal shooting.
The case raises serious concerns about workplace safety and the handling of employee grievances and behaviors. As local authorities proceed with the investigation, the community and Collazo’s coworkers are left to mourn and reflect on the devastating impact of workplace violence.
This incident underscores the importance of comprehensive security measures and the need for robust support systems to prevent such tragedies, illuminating the broader implications for companies on how they might better support staff welfare.