Houston Man Shot Parents Dead, Went to Play Poker, Cops Say
Posted on: May 22, 2025, 08:34h.
Last updated on: May 22, 2025, 10:11h.
- Benjamin Frakes, whose accused of killing his parents, was arrested at Houston’s Doghouse Poker Club
- Victims were found shot multiple times
A man accused of shooting his parents to death at their home in the Houston suburbs was arrested five days later at a poker club in another area of the city.
Police believe Benjamin Frakes, 39, forced his way into the residence of his father, Franklin Frakes, 72, and stepmother, Florentina Frakes, 57, in Spring, North Harris County last Thursday night, May 15. Both were shot multiple times.
Their bodies were discovered at around 8 pm on Friday when a neighbor went to check on them.
Another neighbor, Joshua Griffin, told KHOU-TV that he last saw the Frakeses on Thursday evening, just hours before they were killed.
“They were out there watering their plants. Quiet night — that’s all it was. Nothing out of the ordinary,” Griffin said. “To hear what’s going on, it made it worse.”
Suspect Injured in Gunfight
Investigators with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office say Franklin Frakes may have returned fire during the incident, potentially injuring his son while trying to protect himself. A handgun was found at the scene, and deputies noted evidence of forced entry at the back door.
Frakes took his parents’ cellphones, wallet, and purse, before fleeing in their black Mercedes SUV, according to the Sheriff’s Office. The SUV remains missing.
He was arrested Tuesday at the Doghouse Poker Club in Cypress, about 40 miles away. Police said he was in possession of cocaine and Xanax at the time of his arrest. He had a cast on his right leg, and he walked with a noticeable limp as officers took him into custody.
Frakes has been charged with capital murder and is being held on a $5 million bond. He has previous convictions for drug offenses and burglary, according to court records.
Doghouse Responds
“On Tuesday afternoon, a murder suspect was apprehended by law enforcement at Doghouse Poker Club,” Doghouse said in a post on its Facebook page. “We are fully cooperating with the authorities in their ongoing investigation and will continue to support their efforts in every possible way.
“The individual taken into custody is not a regular player to Doghouse Poker Club. The safety and well-being of our patrons and staff is our top priority, and we are committed to maintaining a secure environment at all times. We commend the swift action of local law enforcement,” the club added.
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