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12-year-old girl injured by stray bullet on Christmas Eve, family members believe it was celebratory gunfire

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Published  December 31, 2024 9:24pm CST
Houston
FOX 26 Houston

Officials: Don't ring in 2025 with celebratory gunfire

A 12-year-old girl is now on crutches after she was hit by celebratory gunfire on Christmas Eve.

The Brief

    • Child injured: A 12-year-old girl was struck by a stray bullet while leaving a family gathering on Christmas Eve.
    • Dangers of celebratory gunfire: Law enforcement officials warn of the dangers of celebratory gunfire, emphasizing the potential for serious injuries and legal consequences.
    • Community appeal: The victim's family is urging the public to refrain from firing guns into the air and to report any instances of celebratory gunfire to authorities.

HOUSTON - It’s not safe, ethical or legal - and it almost cost a 12-year-old her life.

Alejandra Moncada says her daughter Ashley Rodriguez was hit by a stray bullet Christmas Eve, they believe from celebratory gunfire.

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They were leaving a family members home on Glenmont Drive when the bullet hit Ashley’s leg.

They say a neighbor saw and offered to rush them to the hospital. On the way, they got into a minor crash on Westpark Drive & Hillcroft Avenue where officials say they responded to transport Ashley to the hospital.

The family believes the stray bullet came from celebratory gunfire. Something that law enforcement says happens all to often around the holidays - especially New Year’s Eve.

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If caught firing a weapon in this manner, officials say one can be charged with a class A misdemeanor, which comes with a $4,000 fine and up to a year in jail.

In a case like this Ashley’s, whoever fired the weapon could face a felony aggravated assault charge, which can come with a prison sentence.

Law enforcement is geared up and ready to respond this New Year’s Eve.

Ashley’s family wants to spread the word that celebratory gunfire has real consequences, and are asking the public to never do it.

Houston police are investigating Ashley’s case and looking for the shooter. 

If you have any information, call 713-222-TIPS.

HoustonNewsCrime and Public Safety