How can something like this happen?

15-year-old Sharell Butler from the Bronx is charged with the murders of two men, 22-year-old John Hopkins-Drago and 24-year-old Christopher Umpierre. According to reports, Butler, a purported gang member who goes by the street name "Lady Red," is accused of killing the two men during a 48-hour period from December 19 to December 21, 2008. Police say both of the murders were drug-related.

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What is happening to children?

Jane Greer, Ph.D., a family therapist in New York City, says, "Sometimes, one incident can cause a kid to snap but there's usually a build-up of events," she says. "Kids or teens say 'I hate you, I wish you were dead!' but to act on their fantasies, you're then dealing with someone who has no impulse control."

Greer says children and teens haven't fully developed the ability to rein in bad behavior. But that's not to say every parent should worry -- in fact, most shouldn't because these cases are rare. Being sullen, snappy, and disconnected from the family are characteristics of every kid in America. So how do you know when you really have a problem?

"This issue hasn't been studied enough to form a profile for a child or teen killer, but we do know that kids who disconnect with their parents, have no impulse control and anger issues are more susceptible to killing," she says. "By encouraging your kid to be open about his social life, he'll be less likely to behave secretively and vulnerable to outside influences. But trust your gut and get your kid counseling if you're concerned."

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