HOUSTON, TX – A birthday celebration turned abruptly into a horrific crime scene early on Sunday, leading to the death of a man in southeast Houston. According to police, two potentially underage suspects are being pursued in connection with the shooting.
The incident happened around 1 a.m. at a residence on Juliabora Street in the Meadowbrook neighborhood. Uninvited party attendants appeared and initiated a dispute which escalated into a shooting.
As a result, Filiberto Puente, a 67-year-old resident of the home, was shot and found dead inside upon police arrival. A female attendee was also shot and later rushed to Texas Children’s Hospital, with her age undisclosed.
Approximately 60 to 70 individuals were present at the birthday party for the victim’s grandson, Michael Sanchez. A heartbroken Sanchez mentioned his grandfather’s significant influence and care in his upbringing. Filiberto Puente’s death hit especially hard for Sanchez as he was on the brink of turning 18 and anticipating his graduation, which his grandfather will sadly not witness.
Local law enforcement detained several individuals found with firearms in their possession when officers arrived at the scene, and some of them may face forthcoming charges. One person, arrested a few blocks away from the crime scene, is under questioning.