HOUSTON, TX – A suspect, believed to be armed, was shot dead by a police officer in Houston. This took place after he was caught allegedly aiming a firearm at the officer during a pursuit, as reported by local law enforcement. The incident occurred around 8:50 p.m. in the vicinity of the 6700 block of Bennington Street, near Homestead Road in the Trinity/Houston Gardens neighborhood.
Houston Police Chief Troy Finner stated that earlier in the evening, around 7 p.m., officers were called to an apartment complex. They were dispatched to the scene in response to a group of men who were reportedly congregating, as seen on social media posts. Upon arrival at approximately 9 p.m., officers observed that the group was armed.
According to Chief Finner, the men fled the scene, prompting a police chase. During the pursuit, one of the suspects allegedly brandished a rifle at a Houston Police Department officer. In response, the officer discharged his weapon multiple times, resulting in the death of the suspect, who is believed to have been 17 or 18 years old.
Chief Finner expressed his condolences for the loss of life while acknowledging the gravity of the situation. He emphasized the need for community cooperation to address ongoing issues in the apartment complex.
Five firearms, including the assault rifle allegedly used by the suspect, were recovered from the scene. As per department protocol, the officer who was involved in the shooting has since been placed on administrative leave. The identity of the deceased suspect is yet to be confirmed by the medical examiner’s office.
Chief Finner urged the public to cooperate with law enforcement, emphasizing that it’s better to prioritize overall safety and “drop the guns” in cases like this one.