tend to view those around them as tools to accomplish their goals. Others are merely there for the true narcissist as a means to an end, as a way of achieving whatever goals he has in mind that he is unable to accomplish on his own. Dr. O’Rourke explained that narcissism is a common trait among most teenagers; however, to have the disorder is different. She further explained that Bart was not conclusively diagnosed as having the disorder, but he did possess several of the traits that made up the disorder. As a result, she believed that many of Bart’s scores, which had flown off the charts, were abnormal. She reasoned since Bart had come from an allegedly strong, close family with strong values, and since Bart had no prior criminal history, that the results must be skewed for some unknown reason.
Indeed, instead of diagnosing Bart with narcissistic personality disorder, as was suggested by the Millon Test results, Dr. O’Rourke concluded that Bart had adjustment disorder, a far less intense condition.
According to the Mayo Clinic, adjustment disorder is a type of stress-related mental illness. You may feel anxious or depressed, or even have thoughts of suicide. You may not be able to go about some of your daily routines, such as work or seeing friends. Or you may make reckless decisions. In essence, you have a hard time adjusting to change in your life, and it has serious consequences.
Despite all evidence to the contrary, Dr. O’Rourke opted to pen a recommendation letter for Bart to return back to high school. It would prove to be fruitless, however, as the administration of Clements High School rejected Bart’s appeal and he was not readmitted. Instead, he transferred to Fort Bend Baptist Academy, a private school, for his senior year.
13
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.”
14
Tuesday, December 16, 2003, 11:00 P.M .
Sugar Land Police Department
Highway 6 South
Sugar Land, Texas
Detective Marshall Slot was ready to call it a night. He continued to pursue all