A chilling incident unfolded in Lewisville, Texas, last week, leaving a community reeling in shock and grief. Tamhara Collazo, a 51-year-old woman, was tragically shot and killed by a coworker, Travis Merrill, inside their office building. The motive, as revealed by police investigations, was a disturbing tale of obsession and escalating harassment.
Merrill, also 51 years old, confessed to police that he had become fixated on Collazo. His anger grew over what he perceived as her “unauthorized” extended work breaks, as well as her lack of reciprocation to his affections. The affidavit detailing the incident reveals a chilling pattern of behavior. Collazo, tired of Merrill’s unwanted attention, had previously requested he cease his persistent observation during her breaks and reported his behavior to human resources. He was subsequently sent for counseling, but the harassment didn’t stop.
Upon his return to work, Merrill claimed Collazo deliberately avoided him, fueling his rage further. He started practicing with firearms at home, eventually bringing them to work on multiple occasions, but refrained from using them, believing “it wasn’t the right time.” The day of the tragedy, Merrill followed Collazo to the parking lot during her lunch break, watching her as she sat in her car. He then retrieved two revolvers from his vehicle and waited. When Collazo returned to her cubicle after lunch, Merrill followed her inside and ambushed her, firing multiple shots.
The horrific act was witnessed by dozens of terrified coworkers. Merrill, after the shooting, turned himself in to the police upon their arrival. He is now being held in the Denton County Jail, facing a murder charge.
This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers lurking within seemingly ordinary work environments. It highlights the critical importance of addressing workplace harassment with swift and decisive action. The case of Tamhara Collazo underscores the devastating consequences of ignoring warning signs and failing to protect employees from harmful behaviors. As authorities investigate the incident further, the community grapples with the loss of a life and the chilling realization that such violence can strike anywhere, even in the seemingly safe confines of an office.