Brandon McClain - a victim of domestic murder in Rowlett, Texas

Amanda and Brandon, in happier times

Brandon McClain, age 34, died on June 14, 2014, at his home in Rowlett, Texas.

Rowlett is a suburb of Dallas.

Amanda Todhunter, age 29, was also found dead in this house. Amanda and Brandon had been a couple. They had recently broken up and Amanda had moved to a separate residence. They had been apart for 2 weeks.

It is believed that Amanda came to their former residence sometime before 3 p.m., and was either let in by Brandon or let herself in with a key that she had.

Amanda shot Brandon in the head and in the back, killing him. She then turned the gun on herself, committing suicide.

There is a prior history with this couple. Rowlett police say they received a 911 call on May 24, 2014, when Amanda Todhunter threatened to kill herself. Authorities were also called to the home on February 22 for a simple assault, but the details are not stated.

Brandon was a chief petty officer in the Navy. He enlisted in January of 2001. He was

Gabriel, Archangel, who stands
in the presence of God, pray for
Brandon

currently working as a Navy Recruiter in Dallas. He liked running and going to the gym.

Amanda was a student at Eastfield College in Mesquite.

It has been reported that Amanda and Brandon both had children, but not together. They are described as a quiet couple who kept to themselves.

No one knows what goes on between a couple behind closed doors. Many couples who say they are in love often physically, mentally and sexually abuse each other. Or cheat on each other or piss up all their money on drugs, alcohol or gambling. Or do a million other things that cause them to fall apart.  Only they and God knows what is happening between them.

However, it is not only men who are domestic abusers and murderers. Women are just as capable of murder as men.

This entire incident is tragic in so many ways. A young woman and a young man have lost their lives. A young woman committed murder. Three or more children have lost their parents.

If you are experiencing a relationship breakdown and feel that you are getting out of control because of it:

• Speak to a friend or a family member who you know is calm and who will not exacerbate the situation. 
• Speak to a priest, a pastor or someone you trust. 
• Go to the local hospital's emergency room and say that you are losing it and that you need help. You may need strong prescription drugs to calm you down. 
• Turn yourself in to the local Police, saying that you feel violently out of control and that you don't trust your own actions. 
• Do anything you can to prevent yourself from murdering the person you once loved.

Family members are devastated by Brandon's sudden and tragic death. He will be forever mourned.

Brandon is survived by many loving friends and relatives including his mother.

God save us from those who once said they loved us and then kill us.

Pray that Brandon is in heaven. Pray that he is at peace and is with God. Amen.