Baytown, Texas – A Harris County judge has set bond at $3 million for an 18-year-old Baytown student charged with murder following a stabbing at Ross S. Sterling High School on Wednesday morning, December 17, authorities said.
Stabbing Incident at Ross S. Sterling High School
The Harris County District Attorney’s Office confirmed that Aundre Matthews, 18, will face murder charges in connection with the death of his 16-year-old classmate, Andrew Meismer.
According to prosecutors, the altercation began over a $21 THC vape pen, which Matthews believed Meismer had stolen. The dispute escalated into a physical fight during which Matthews allegedly stabbed Meismer with scissors.
Baytown police responded to the incident at approximately 10:42 a.m. Meismer was flown to the hospital via Life Flight, but tragically died from a stab wound to the neck.
Arrest and Bond Hearing
Matthews was taken into custody shortly after the incident and initially held at Baytown Jail. On Friday, he was transferred to the Harris County Jail, where he appeared before a judge.
During the hearing, the judge set bond at $3 million. Gianpaolo Macerola, Matthews’ defense attorney, had requested a lower bond of $500,000, citing that Matthews has no prior criminal history and cooperated with police after the incident. The request was denied.
Defense Attorney Comments
Macerola noted that he currently lacks details on Matthews’ parents, school disciplinary record, mental health history, or potential learning disabilities. He emphasized that Matthews is an 18-year-old high school senior and described the situation as extremely jarring for someone of his age.
The attorney declined to comment on Matthews’ demeanor or whether he showed remorse, stating it would be inappropriate without context regarding Matthews’ usual behavior.
Next Steps in Defense Investigation
Macerola outlined his next steps, which include:
- Meeting with Matthews at the jail
- Contacting Matthews’ sister
- Reviewing school surveillance video
- Investigating claims presented by prosecutors
He called the case tragic and expressed sympathy for the families affected by the loss, emphasizing the impact of the incident on the community.
Upcoming Court Date
Matthews’ next court appearance is scheduled for January 7, 2026, as the legal process continues. Authorities are proceeding with the murder investigation while the defense prepares its case.
How should schools and communities address conflicts among students before they escalate into violence? Do you think the $3 million bond is appropriate given the circumstances?
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