A teenager has been found guilty of murder for planning to rob and kill his girlfriend’s grandmother. Uriah Lee Urick Jr. was convicted on Friday, November 7, for the February murder of 61-year-old Tammy King, the grandmother of his girlfriend, Tara King. Prosecutors presented text messages and digital evidence during the trial, revealing that Urick and Tara had meticulously planned the robbery and murder.
The court heard that the teens discussed kidnapping and killing Tammy while stealing her money, methamphetamine, and firearms. They also falsely accused Tammy of mistreating them. Prosecutors pointed out several messages showcasing premeditation, including discussions about using ammunition that could penetrate skin and planning the murder for a specific time. Urick referred to the murder as the beginning of their new life.
Tammy was shot in the head on February 5 at her home in Bacliff, near Galveston, Texas. Days later, her body was discovered during a welfare check, hidden under blankets. Investigators revealed that after the murder, the teenagers stole cash from Tammy’s lockbox, leading to a capital murder charge. Thousands of dollars were also transferred from Tammy’s bank account to Tara’s Cash App.
Court documents disclosed that Urick’s mother expressed her belief to investigators that her son was capable of murder, citing Tara’s resentment towards her grandmother for not allowing Urick to stay overnight. Urick’s stepfather also mentioned his concerns about Urick’s violent tendencies.
Following the murder, Urick and Tara traveled to Laredo near the US-Mexico border, where they were arrested on February 9. A witness testified that he had driven them to Laredo and later helped authorities locate the murder weapons.
In defense, attorney Bill Agnew argued that the murder was not premeditated but a result of drug-influenced teenagers seeking independence. He disputed the prosecution’s claim of robbery as a motive. A conviction of capital murder in Texas carries an automatic life sentence without parole.
Galveston County Sheriff Jimmy Fullen stated, “Justice has been served for Tammy King and her loved ones.” Tara King, also charged with capital murder, is set to face trial in January 2026.