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Tuesday, December 16, 2003, 10:00 A.M.

Sugar Creek Baptist Church

Southwest Freeway

Sugar Land, Texas

Nearly a thousand people showed up at the cavernous Sugar Creek Baptist Church, just two miles from the Whitaker home. Sadly, it was not for a joyous occasion, such as the marriage of one of its parishioners or a baptism of a newborn. Instead, it was to mourn the deaths of two of Sugar Land’s most beloved members, Tricia and Kevin Whitaker.

Family members, friends of the family, and complete strangers intermingled inside the church, most in tears. When Kent and Bart Whitaker entered, in slings as a result of their gunshots, some in attendance gasped as they caught sight of both men for the first time after the murders. Others cried upon their entrance, shocked to see them in their injured states. Kent and Bart took their seats in the front pews and attempted to listen to their friends sing the praises of Tricia and Kevin.

Family friend and church pastor Matt Barnhill likened the murders to an earthquake. “In some communities in California, they have earthquakes. This is Sugar Land’s earthquake. Our lives are shaken and our sense of safety and well-being is shattered.” The eulogy was especially difficult for the confident and calm pastor, as he was so close to the Whitakers.

John Flores, one of Kevin’s best friends, spoke to the assembled masses about his buddy and Tricia. “They signified Christ in all that they did and all that they were.”

Brittany Barnhhill, Matt Barnhill’s daughter and Kevin’s good friend, spoke directly to Bart about his younger brother. “I cannot tell you how much Kevin looked up to you.” Bart was somewhat taken aback, but remained stoic. “He wanted so badly to be like you.” Bart blushed and fought to hold back yet more tears.

Finally another family friend spoke to the crowd, asking for donations to a reward fund to help find Tricia and Kevin’s murderer. He concluded by adding, “The killer is still out there.”