Assistant Police Chief Patricia Cantu of the Houston Police Department addressed the news media following a shooting that took place in Houston early Sunday. One individual was killed and more than a dozen were injured during a shooting incident at a family gathering, as reported by authorities.
Assistant Police Chief Cantu mentioned that several individuals were taken in for questioning, and it was uncertain if the perpetrator was among those being interviewed. The shooting occurred around 12:50 a.m. Sunday during what initially began as a family barbecue. Cantu explained that an uninvited guest was asked to leave, and as they were departing, they started firing shots in the vicinity. Residents also returned fire in response.
Cantu noted that multiple individuals were in critical condition and others were in stable condition at nearby hospitals. She stated that a total of 14 people were shot, with some of the wounded individuals transporting themselves for medical assistance. Investigators were actively trying to locate these individuals to gather more information about the incident.
Police spokesperson Jody Silva mentioned that interviews with witnesses were ongoing more than 12 hours after the shooting occurred. Although multiple individuals were detained for questioning, no arrests had been made at that time. Eyewitness Christian Sanchez recounted the chaos that unfolded at the party, with fights escalating into gunfire resulting in the tragic death of a friend.
The party had a clear message on its flyer urging attendees to refrain from bringing guns and to leave any unnecessary conflicts at home. Cantu commended the swift response of the officers, who arrived promptly following the initial 911 calls made shortly after midnight on Saturday. She praised the officers for swiftly securing multiple shooting locations and providing a safe environment for fire and rescue teams amidst the chaotic situation.
