HOUSTON – Since the start of summertime, KPRC 2 has reported multiple incidents involving teen violence. The most recent cases happened on Friday.
In Southwest Houston, rapid gunfire pierced the night outside apartment complexes on Cinnamon Lane and Beechnut Street. Police report that two officers, fearing for their lives, shot a 15-year-old who was armed with a rifle. The teen was among a group of individuals armed with guns, firing at officers. No officers were hurt, but the gunfire alarmed neighbors like Chary Martinez.
“I was in bed, watching a movie, and then out of nowhere, I just started hearing gunshots. At first, I thought it couldn’t be, but then it came consecutively. I knew it was definitely gunshots. I just heard people running, a guy running. I decided to stay in bed because I have my kids. I had to check on them to ensure they were fine because bullets have no names,” said Martinez.
Later that same day, Harris County Precinct 4 constables responded to a stabbing incident in Northwest Harris County. A 15-year-old was taken into custody for allegedly stabbing two people. It remains unclear if the teen will face charges.
Judson Robinson from the Houston Area Urban League highlights the alarming rise in teen violence.
“Teen violence has increased by 108% over the last five years. We need to respond to this,” he says.
Robinson urges families to seek help and resources.
“I encourage you to plug in. Go online. Find out what the Urban League, United Way, Big Brothers and Big Sisters, and the Boys and Girls Clubs,” said Robinson.
Martinez, a mother of three teenagers, expresses her concerns, “It scares me because I have a 15-year-old myself. It’s dangerous to find out that there’s a 15-year-old with a gun around.”
The Houston Police Department reports that the 15-year-old who was shot is expected to recover and will face charges. A 20-year-old woman is also being charged in connection with the case. HPD’s Special Investigations Unit, Internal affairs and the DA’s office will investigate the case.