Houston, Texas — A chaotic and deadly series of events unfolded in southeast Houston Friday morning after a major crash escalated into gunfire and multiple carjackings, according to the Houston Police Department (HPD).
Officers were first dispatched at 8:29 a.m. to a crash involving four vehicles on Park Place Boulevard near the Gulf Freeway. Authorities say the driver at the center of the incident, who was in a white SUV, immediately escalated the situation after the collision.
Suspect Opens Fire, Carjacks Vehicles
After the initial crash, the suspect reportedly exited his SUV, brandished a firearm, and fired several rounds into the air. HPD says he then carjacked a black SUV at gunpoint, fleeing northbound onto I-45.
A woman who was inside one of the vehicles at the scene was pronounced dead. Authorities have not confirmed whether she died from the collision or from the gunfire. The medical examiner will determine the cause of death before additional details are released.
Shortly afterward, the suspect allegedly carjacked a second black SUV near Woodridge Drive. Police have not confirmed why he switched vehicles or the circumstances of the second theft.
Law Enforcement Tracks Suspect Across City
Officers began a citywide search for the stolen vehicles. Harris County Constable Precinct 1 deputies ultimately located the suspect on Highway 59 northbound, near the George R. Brown Convention Center, where he attempted to carjack a white Dodge Ram truck stranded on the roadside.
Deputies apprehended him at that location without further incident. The suspect sustained minor injuries and was transported to a hospital for treatment.
Eyewitness Describes Harrowing Scene
A witness, Juan Nava, recounted the frightening events:
“It was a wreck, it was death, it was a carjacking. It was all three. The next thing we know there’s gunshots. He shot in the air, shot to the ground, he just started shooting around, pointing in our direction.”
Authorities describe the morning as a dangerous and unpredictable sequence of crimes spanning multiple locations.
Felony Charges Expected
Assistant Chief Rodriguez stated that investigators anticipate multiple felony charges for the suspect, including charges related to aggravated assault with a firearm, carjacking, and the fatal crash. HPD is still investigating the cause of the initial collision and the circumstances surrounding the fatalities and injuries.
Road Closures and Traffic Alerts
Due to the investigation, the Park Place Boulevard scene will remain closed for an extended period, and other road closures in the area are possible. Authorities are urging drivers to use alternate routes while emergency crews and investigators secure the area and collect evidence.
HPD emphasizes that the public should remain cautious and alert while traveling in southeast Houston, as the investigation continues.
Were you in the area or witnessed the chaos unfold? Share your experiences, thoughts, or questions in the comments below — your input helps the community stay informed.
