Four people were shot outside a southeast Houston bar early Sunday morning. The shooting is one of three overnight incidents currently under investigation by the Houston Police Department.
According to Assistant Chief James Bryant, officers responded to a shooting call around 3:30 a.m. in the 12900 block of Nyack Drive, near the Gulf Freeway.
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Preliminary details indicate an SUV drove past the location, turned around, and opened fire on a crowd standing outside the “Social Empire” bar. Investigators say about 15 to 20 people were gathered outside at the time, with additional patrons inside.
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Four people were hit—two men and one woman were taken to local hospitals in critical to stable condition. Two others suffered graze wounds and self-transported to nearby hospitals. The victim’s range in age from approximately 18 to 40 years old.
“We are blessed in this situation to have this occur and no one lose their life,” Bryant said. “We are blessed for that, but it’s still an issue and it’s something we need to address.”
Assistant Chief Bryant also addressed concerns about the nature of the establishment, saying investigators are working to determine if the business was operating as an after-hours club.
“We can’t confirm that right now, but it appears as if they were operating as an after-hours establishment,” he said. “We haven’t been able to contact the owner, so we’re working to access any possible surveillance video.”
The shooting comes amid what police describe as a violent night across the city. HPD responded to at least three separate shooting scenes.
“It is very concerning,” Bryant said. “Our mission is to keep the city safe, and we’re going to do what we can to make sure that happens.”
He added that these types of incidents at unregulated, late-night venues are becoming a recurring issue. “Violence at these after-hours establishments is becoming an issue—and has been an issue,” Bryant said. “Yes, we are addressing it.”
Major Assaults detectives are leading the investigation. No arrests have been made, and police have not released a motive.
Anyone with information is urged to contact HPD or Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS