Community to discuss double killing

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Maria and Norma Hurtado -- a mother and daughter who were shot to death at their home last week -- were laid to rest Monday after services at Cristo Rey Catholic Church . Police said the crime was the outcome of a father's anger stemming from his daughter's romantic relationship with the younger woman.

The suspect, Jose Alfonso Aviles, is charged with capital murder in the killings, but the Travis County District Attorney's Office is considering also prosecuting it as a hate crime. The shootings, which happened April 18, have touched off strong reactions from human rights groups in Austin.

The city of Austin Human Rights Commission will hold a public meeting at 5:30 p.m. Monday to speak with law enforcement and community leaders about the crime which may have been motivated by hate.

Police said Aviles killed Norma and Maria because he objected to Norma’s lesbian relationship with his daughter.

Testimony at Monday’s meeting will discuss if such crimes should be classified as hate crimes and how they should be prosecuted.

The meeting will be held in the City Council chambers.

Austin Human Rights Commissioner Paul Rhea said there has been an increase in crimes against gay people in Austin. 

"When incidents like this happen, it is really important that we take action," said Rhea. "Austin is a very tolerant city and that is why there has been such an outcry."

Rhea referenced a case in December of 2010 where two gay men said they were attacked outside a 4th street bar.

Christopher Carbone, editor of "L Style G Style" magazine, thinks Monday's meeting will be helpful in maintaining a dialogue with city leaders.

"I think Austin is a very tolerant place and an incident like this will be a teachable moment in the community."