Retired District Judge and Wife Fatally Shot, Son Charged with Capital Murder in Williamson County

On January 8, 2024, at approximately 11:45 pm, Williamson County Emergency Communications received a 911 call reporting a shooting in the 300 block of County Road 317 outside Georgetown’s city limits.

Deputies arriving at the scene encountered Seth B. Carnes, a 45-year-old white male, leaving the residence. Carnes confessed to shooting and killing his parents, identified as Susan H. Carnes, a 74-year-old white female, and Alfred “Burt” Carnes, a 74-year-old white male, a retired former District Judge in Williamson County.

Seth Carnes was taken into custody and charged with Capital Murder, currently held without bond at the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office. Detectives, upon entering the home, discovered the bodies of Susan and Alfred Carnes, both having suffered fatal gunshot wounds. Preliminary investigations suggest that the murders resulted from a disagreement, escalating into family violence and death.

The District Attorney’s Office is handling the criminal prosecution, and due to the ongoing investigation, no further information is available at this time.

Commander John Foster of the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division expressed condolences, stating, “This deeply distressing incident has sent shockwaves through our community, particularly considering Alfred “Burt” Carnes’ esteemed position as a retired District Judge. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the friends and family affected by this heartbreaking event.”

The Williamson County Sheriff’s Office is collaborating with the District Attorney’s Office to conduct a thorough investigation into this tragic incident.