Las Vegas, Nevada – A tragic incident unfolded in a law office on W. Charleston Boulevard in Summerlin where a Las Vegas attorney, Joe Houston II, fatally shot his ex-daughter-in-law and her husband, who was also an attorney. The victims were identified as Ashley Prince and Dennis Prince. The shooting occurred during a custody deposition as part of a dispute between Dylan Houston, Joe’s son, and Ashley Prince. Joe Houston then turned the gun on himself, taking his own life.
According to sources, Joe Houston had been a member of the Nevada bar since 1974 and was previously reprimanded for violating the State Bar of Nevada’s professional rules of conduct. In 2021, he was hired in a divorce case where a client paid a $5,000 retainer and a $400-per-hour fee. However, when the circumstances changed, and the divorce was called off, the client requested a refund of the remaining funds from the retainer. Joe Houston initially refused, claiming the case was accepted on a flat fee basis. Eventually, he provided a partial refund but also billed the client for more than nine hours of work.
The Nevada bar issued a reprimand against Joe Houston for failing to provide a refund promptly, causing potential harm to the client. They also fined him $1,500 for violating the rule of declining or terminating representation. This was not the first instance of disciplinary action against Joe Houston, as in 2006, a judge had sanctioned him for disrespectful behavior during a divorce hearing.
In response to the tragic events, a spokesperson for the Houston family expressed profound shock and sadness, requesting privacy and prayers as they navigate the aftermath. The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department is still investigating the incident, highlighting the importance of avoiding speculation and allowing the authorities to carry out their work.
Friends of the Princes confirmed that the couple had recently welcomed a child together and each had children from previous marriages. The community is reeling from the devastating loss, emphasizing the need for support and unity during such challenging times.
As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on honoring the memories of the victims and supporting their families through this period of mourning.