Austin Apartment Fire Leads to Murder-Suicide Investigation

A fire at the Pearl Lantana apartment complex early Wednesday morning led to the discovery of two deceased individuals in what investigators have determined was a murder-suicide.

Firefighters Discover Two Bodies

At approximately 5:18 a.m. on February 12, 2025, the Austin Police Department (APD) and Austin Fire Department (AFD) responded to a report of white smoke coming from an apartment at 6401 Rialto Boulevard. As firefighters worked to extinguish the flames, they found two bodies inside the unit.

The victims were identified as Micaela (Kayla) Sanchez, 33, and Daniel Sanchez, 35. Both had signs of trauma and were pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigation Points to Murder-Suicide

Homicide detectives, arson investigators, and crime scene specialists processed the scene and conducted interviews with witnesses. Their findings indicate that Daniel Sanchez shot and killed Micaela Sanchez, started the fire, and then shot himself.

Investigators also discovered that Daniel set fire to a garage the couple owned within the complex before the fire spread to the apartment.

Authorities have confirmed that the incident appears to be isolated, and there is no ongoing threat to the public.

Anyone with information should contact the Austin Police Department at 512-974-TIPS. You may submit your tip anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program by visiting austincrimestoppers.org or calling 512-472-8477.

This case is being investigated as Austin’s 6th homicide of 2025.