HOUSTON, TX – A pair of tragic events unfolded in Houston, leading to the deaths of an 11-year-old boy and a 17-year-old teen. Houston Police Department responded to the incident on Wednesday at an apartment complex near Arto Street and Hardy Street.
Authorities revealed that an apartment occupied by family members aged 10 to 17 became the site of a fatal accident after a 17-year-old boy produced a firearm, placing it on a bed in the apartment. A 14-year-old girl picked up the gun, unaware it was loaded, and, in a tragic turn, accidentally shot the 11-year-old boy, who succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
Later, the 17-year-old, reportedly in a state of extreme distress, armed himself with the same gun then fled to a nearby wooded area. He discharged several rounds from the weapon, one striking an empty apartment unit. Subsequently, in a heartbreaking resolution, the teen shot himself. He was rushed to a hospital but, unfortunately, did not survive.
There is currently insufficient information concerning the origin of the gun, whether it was previously in the apartment or carried by the 17-year-old.
Confronted with the fatal outcome of this event, HPD Assistant Chief Keith Seafous implored the public to ensure firearms are securely stored and safely handled by legally authorized individuals. The investigation into this horrific incident is ongoing.