Authorities say the juvenile suspect is believed to be a Spring ISD student, while investigators have not disclosed what led to the shooting.
SPRING, TX — A 14-year-old boy has been taken into custody in connection with the fatal shooting of 15-year-old Royce Witchet near Westfield High School, ending a search that began after the suspect fled the area, authorities said.
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest Wednesday, a day after Witchet was shot during an encounter along a sidewalk near Westfield High School and the Spring Independent School District administration building. Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said the suspect is believed to be another Spring ISD student. Authorities have not publicly identified the 14-year-old because of his age or announced what charges he may face.
The shooting happened shortly before 3 p.m. Tuesday along Ella Boulevard, according to authorities. Gonzalez said there had been some type of incident involving Witchet and the other teenager before the shooting, but investigators have not publicly explained what happened between them or what prompted the violence.
Witchet was critically wounded and taken to a hospital, where he later died. Authorities identified him Wednesday as the investigation continued. The suspect fled on foot after the shooting, prompting deputies and other law enforcement personnel to search the surrounding area. The teenager was taken into custody the following day.
The sheriff’s office has released few details about the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Investigators have not publicly said whether Witchet and the suspect knew each other before the encounter. Authorities also have not announced what evidence led them to identify the 14-year-old or provided additional details about his arrest.
Spring ISD said Witchet was a Westfield High School student and described his death as a tragic act of violence. The district extended condolences to his family, friends, classmates, teachers and staff members. School officials said support would be available for members of the campus community grieving his death.
Westfield High School remained open after the shooting. The district said there would be an increased law enforcement presence on campus in the days following Witchet’s death as a precaution intended to provide additional support and reassurance to students, employees and families.
The shooting occurred near the school and district administration property rather than during an attack inside the high school. Authorities said relatively few students were on campus at the time. The incident nevertheless prompted a significant law enforcement response and renewed security measures around the school as investigators searched for the person responsible.
Because the suspect is 14, authorities have withheld his identity. The sheriff’s office has not announced the specific allegations he could face in juvenile court or disclosed additional information about the next stage of the case. The investigation remains active, and officials said further details would be released as the case proceeds.
Author note: Last updated September 24, 2026.