2-year-old shot in Fourth Ward, Houston police investigate
HOUSTON - Houston police are investigating a shooting in Fourth Ward involving a toddler on Friday.
HPD Lieutenant Larry Satterhite said officers responded to a shooting in the 1600 block of Ruthven at Gillette around 6:30 p.m. and found a 2-year-old had been shot.
Initial reports say four vehicles were passing as a group of people were outside: a black car, a black truck, a silver sedan, and a champagne car.
According to witnesses, shots were fired from the black truck, but officials are investigating if shots were fired from another car based on evidence of shell casings from a rifle and a handgun.
The 2-year-old was playing outside in his yard when he was shot in the arm and torso, Satterwhite said.
The child was taken to the hospital in critical condition by private vehicle. He was last reported to be in stable condition.
New Zion Temple Church is at the intersection of where the shooting took place. Pastor Bishop John Tate told FOX 26, "About three weeks ago we had a shooting and the sheriffs did come out. We have been very concerned with the situation of gambling selling drugs and other things. We have contacted the police department. At this time we are not seeing very many policemen coming out."
Lt. Satterwhite states they have no suspect descriptions at this time and they are asking for help from the public.
It is unsure if the shooters involved were firing at the crowd or if two of the vehicles were shooting at each other.
Anyone with information is asked to call HPD Major Assaults at 713-308-8800 or call Houston Crime Stoppers at 713-222-8477.