PRAIRIE VIEW, TX – A shooting incident marred a college homecoming event in southeastern Texas, leaving seven individuals wounded. The incident unfolded during a gathering referred to as a “trail ride pasture party,” which coincided with another celebration for Prairie View A&M University’s homecoming. Both events drew a significant crowd to a field near the university campus, approximately 50 miles outside Houston, as per the Waller County Sheriff’s Office.
Responding deputies arrived at the scene shortly after 10 p.m. local time on Sunday, discovering seven individuals with gunshot wounds to their lower extremities. Among the victims, four are adult women, two are adult men, and one is a juvenile male. Fortunately, none of the injuries are life-threatening.
Authorities revealed that the shooting stemmed from a verbal dispute among attendees, resulting in the discharge of a firearm multiple times and striking seven bystanders. Chaos ensued, with people running and injuries occurring during the commotion.
It’s estimated that over 1,000 individuals attended the event. Security was partially provided by the county and constables from a Waller County precinct, in conjunction with a private security agency. However, the sheriff’s office noted that security protocols agreed upon were not followed during the incident.
The Waller County Sheriff’s Office initiated an investigation into the shooting and was actively pursuing leads. Prior to the event, the sheriff’s office had issued a notice on its Facebook page, informing the public of an approved “mass gathering” at the event location. The post emphasized the importance of following instructions and avoiding the area due to parking concerns.
In response to the incident, Prairie View A&M expressed its deep concern for the victims and those affected, despite the event not being an official university homecoming activity. The university condemned the violence and expressed sadness over the senseless act.