What was supposed to be a peaceful gathering in east Harris County ended in tragedy when someone opened fire in a crowded parking lot, leaving seven people shot. Tragically, one of the victims did not survive.
It happened late Saturday night outside a gas station off FM 2100 and Highway 90 in Crosby.
New surveillance video obtained by KPRC 2 shows the chaos unfold as dozens of people suddenly run for cover. Deputies say around 100 people were gathered in the lot—dancing, socializing, and possibly holding a fundraiser—when shots rang out.
OUR FIRST REPORT: Seven people shot at benefit in Crosby area
Among those trying to make sense of it all is Daniel Ayala, who owns a food truck that’s been parked in that lot for nearly four years.
“People don’t feel secure,” Ayala told KPRC 2. “That’s why I only open for breakfast and lunch. I don’t want to deal with the problems that happen at night.”
Ayala said he typically leaves by 2 p.m. every day. His decision to shut down early isn’t just about routine — it’s a safety precaution.
“It’s always something on the weekends,” he said. “People gather, and sometimes they’re drinking, asking my customers for money. I’ve had people harass them. That’s not the kind of place I want to run a business in.”
After Saturday night’s shooting, Ayala said his employee texted him urgently, telling him something had happened and to check the cameras. The footage showed exactly what he feared: people running, chaos, and a sense of panic that spilled across the lot.
“This is the second time something violent like this has happened since I’ve been here,” Ayala said. “And it’s sad. These were young people — someone died.”
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office says the victims include five men and two women, all between 16 and 25 years old. Two of them were flown by Life Flight to nearby hospitals. One person later died.
Sgt. Gonzalez with the sheriff’s office described the scene as “very chaotic.”
“They estimate there were about 100 people here,” Gonzalez said. “We’re still trying to confirm the total number of gunshot victims. One person has been pronounced deceased.”
Ayala says he’s tried to keep the peace — even giving away free tacos to those in need — but after this, he hopes more can be done.
“I try to be nice. I don’t want trouble. But something has to change,” he said. “We need more patrols, or at least someone driving by at night. If there was a police station closer, maybe things would be different.”
As of Sunday evening, no arrests have been made, and no weapons have been recovered.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.
