RUSK COUNTY — The Rusk County Sheriff's Office has released the identities of the victims and suspect in the July 9 double homicide suicide in the Town of Hawkins, according to a press release from the Rusk County Sheriff's Office.
PRESS RELEASE
The Rusk County Sheriff's Office is now able to release more information regarding the double homicide and suicide from July 9, 2026 in the Township of Hawkins.
- Read the Original Press Release: Rusk County Authorities Investigating Apparent Double Homicide-Suicide
When deputies entered the home they found Rocky Griffith, 76yrs old and Lona Kelley, 80yrs old dead from gunshot wounds.
The suspect, Chad Griffith, 45yrs old and the son of Rocky and Lona was also found deceased from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
All lived in the same home together.
The Rusk County Sheriff's Office extends our most heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and everyone affected by this unfortunate tragedy.
—Per Sheriff Phil Grassmann
Last Update: Jul 15, 2026 8:20 am CDT
