PRAIRIE VIEW, TX – A gathering near Prairie View A&M University took a horrifying turn when a shooter opened fire, injuring seven bystanders. The incident unfolded following a dispute during a “trail ride pasture party” held at 35028 Cameron Road, where both the event and PVAMU’s homecoming festivities were taking place in conjunction.
The Waller County Sheriff’s office reported that the victims of the shooting included four women, two men, and a child, all of whom sustained gunshot wounds to their lower extremities. Thankfully, none of the injuries are currently believed to be life-threatening. In response to the emergency, multiple Life Flight helicopters were dispatched to transport the injured to safety.
Authorities confirmed that security at the event was provided by the Waller County Pct. 3 Constables and an undisclosed private security agency. However, it was noted that none of the established security protocols, agreed upon by the event’s promoter, were followed at the time of the incident.
Before official details emerged, the Waller County Sheriff’s Office had posted a notice on Facebook, indicating that the “mass gathering” was approved by the County Judge at the FM 362 and Cameron Rd. location. The event promoter had agreed to comply with the judge’s instructions, urging the public to avoid the FM 362 area to mitigate traffic issues related to parking in approved pastures.
As of now, deputies have not released any information regarding a possible suspect in the case. It is estimated that over 1,000 individuals were present at the event.