A family barbecue in Houston turned tragic early Sunday after an uninvited guest opened fire, killing one person and injuring more than a dozen others in a chaotic shootout, police said.
The violence broke out just after midnight at a home gathering when the suspect, who was asked to leave the party, allegedly began firing as he exited. Some residents reportedly returned fire in response.
Assistant Police Chief Patricia Cantu said several individuals were detained for questioning, though it’s unclear if the shooter is among them.
“They had an uninvited guest… as he was leaving he began shooting in the area. There was return fire from residents as well,” Cantu told reporters.
Multiple victims were transported to local hospitals, some in critical condition. Others reportedly drove themselves to emergency rooms, complicating efforts to confirm the total number of injured.
Police responded within minutes of the initial 911 calls. Officers quickly secured the scene, which had multiple active locations, allowing emergency personnel to treat and transport victims safely.
As of now, the motive remains unclear and authorities are working to piece together the chain of events. Investigators are also urging any attendees who fled the scene to come forward.
The shooting adds to growing concerns about gun violence at social gatherings and in residential neighborhoods across the country.
