Authorities are investigating a deadly shooting in Alief early Tuesday morning after a man called 911, reporting that he had shot and killed someone inside his car.
The incident occurred around 4:45 a.m. outside an apartment complex on Beechnut near South Course Drive. According to Texas Times, the caller admitted to Houston police dispatchers that he had opened fire on a person he found inside his vehicle.
Preliminary details indicate that the car owner was heading to his vehicle when he spotted an unknown man sitting in the front seat, allegedly rummaging through his belongings. The owner then returned to his apartment, retrieved a firearm, and came back to confront the individual.
Police said the car owner ordered the man to leave, but the suspect reportedly responded, “If you’re gonna do it, do it,” before making a lunging motion. The vehicle owner then fired, striking the man, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities confirmed that the shooter is cooperating with the investigation. The Harris County District Attorney’s Office is working to determine whether any charges will be filed or if the case will be presented to a grand jury.
While vehicle break-ins have been a growing concern for Houston-area residents, law enforcement officials emphasize the importance of handling such situations with caution.
“In all instances, it’s usually beneficial and probably best to call the authorities if it’s a life-and-death situation,” said HPD Homicide Detective Juan Diaz. “Of course, sometimes you’re going to act accordingly, but we don’t want to judge whether he was right or wrong. In his mind, at that time, he did what he thought was necessary to defend his property.”
Texas Times will continue to provide updates as more details emerge.
