The Dallas, Texas, community is mourning the untimely deaths of a couple, Antwain Bates and Megan Bates.
According to reports, Antwain “Ghotti” Bates and his partner, Megan Bates, were found dead in Hobbs, New Mexico, on January 9, 2026, in what authorities are calling a murder–suicide.
Reports indicate that the incident stemmed from a domestic situation. No further details regarding their deaths have been released.
Furthermore, the untimely deaths of Antwain Bates and Megan Bates have left a profound void in the lives of their family, friends, and loved ones.
Antwain Bates, a native of Texas, was a cherished member of the sports community and touched the lives of many with his athletic skills.
He played varsity basketball for the Alvarado High School men’s basketball team from 1996 to 1998, leading his team in several victories.
Many of his former teammates and coach recalls Antwain was one of the most gifted players who set several records throughout his career.
Additionally, Antwain Bates was the co-founder of Full Throttle Inc MC.
Megan Bates was also an avid softball player and sports fan, and a great mother to her two sons.
Similarly, many of Antwain and Megan’s loved ones are sharing their memories on social media and extending their heartfelt condolences to their family during this difficult time.
One wrote:
“The softball community has lost two beautiful souls. I’m not buying into this he say she said bottom line is they’re both gone and we may never know the true story the fact of the matter is there’s kids left without a father and without a mother. All I know Gotti was not perfect Megan was not perfect heck I’m not perfect but they were human. I had the privilege to pray and do Bible studies with both together and separately they tried so hard they both asked me for prayer but the devil wouldn’t leave them alone. It is heartbreaking it’s
Victor Gonzalez
tuff and I’ll continue to pray for everyone affected behind this.
🙏 🙏 🙏”
Another added:
“He was more than a cousin; he was a cherished brother and friend whose legacy will continue to shine brightly in our hearts, filling the space he leaves with a sense of purpose and hope that are beyond words. I will share details about the celebration of his life as they become available.God, I put my family in your hands today. We can’t control everything that happens to them, but we can remember to cover them in prayer. (Psalms 91:1-16) 🙏🏽♥️”
Toysha Bates Solomon
Antwain’s daughters, Senaya Bates, Kevrianna Jones, and Sionya Danae Patel-Bates, also shared several pictures of their late father and shared a heartfelt post on social media recalling his memories.
Antwain Bates raised all of his daughters and his son, Antwain Bates Jr., to be exceptional athletes. His daughters played softball in high school, whereas his son is a standout football player.
Antwain and Megan Bates’ family will soon provide details about their funeral and memorial services.
