A family tragedy in central Brazil has left a community in mourning after authorities confirmed that a municipal official killed his two young children before dying by suicide inside his home. The incident occurred on the night of Wednesday, February 11, in the city of Itumbiara, located in the state of Goiás.

The suspect has been identified as Thales Machado, a municipal secretary in Itumbiara. According to local authorities, Machado fatally shot his two children, ages 12 and 8, before turning the weapon on himself.

The case is being investigated by the Polícia Civil de Goiás and the Polícia Militar de Goiás as a double homicide followed by suicide.

Emergency responders arrived at the residence after reports of gunfire. The two children were transported to local hospitals in critical condition. Authorities confirmed that the older child died shortly after arrival. The younger child underwent surgery but succumbed to injuries early Thursday morning.

Machado was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators have not yet released a full timeline of events leading up to the tragedy. However, reports indicate that Machado had recently learned of alleged marital infidelity. Authorities have not officially confirmed all details related to motive, but preliminary information suggests that personal conflict may have preceded the incident.

Local media reported that prior to the shooting, Machado published a message on social media addressed to his family, asking for forgiveness and making statements regarding his wife. Officials have not released the full content of the message but confirmed that it is part of the ongoing investigation.

Law enforcement agencies are reviewing digital communications, forensic evidence from the scene, and any prior reports connected to the family. As is standard procedure in cases involving homicide and suicide, investigators are working to reconstruct the sequence of events and determine whether additional factors played a role.

Community leaders in Itumbiara expressed shock over the incident. Municipal offices acknowledged the loss and extended condolences to the family members affected. Schools and local institutions have also addressed the tragedy, offering counseling services to those impacted.

Domestic violence and family-related homicides remain complex and deeply distressing cases for investigators and communities alike. Experts emphasize that no personal dispute justifies violence against children. Authorities continue to urge individuals experiencing emotional or relational crises to seek professional help and support services.

The deaths of the two children have prompted renewed discussion in the region about mental health resources and intervention mechanisms in situations of family conflict. Officials have not indicated whether there had been previous complaints or police involvement prior to the incident.

As the investigation continues, police have stated that official findings will be released once all evidence has been thoroughly reviewed. For now, the case stands as a double homicide followed by suicide, leaving a family and community grappling with grief.

In Itumbiara, candles have been lit and tributes placed in memory of the two young victims. Friends and neighbors describe them as innocent children whose lives were cut short far too soon.

Authorities reiterate that the investigation remains active, and additional information will be shared as it becomes available.