Houston shooting: Man killed in elevator at Haven at Elgin apartment complex
HOUSTON - A man was shot to death in the elevator of a Houston apartment complex, and a 17-year-old is in the hospital, police say.
The shooting was reported around 11:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Haven at Elgin apartment complex at 3719 Elgin Street.
Police say someone on the 17th floor was trying to take the elevator, but when the doors opened, he found a man’s body inside. The male has been identified as Edwin Quinones.
"We definitely didn’t sign up to live in a war zone. It’s like every night there’s something going on here," said Obi, a student from the University of Houston.
Officers responded to the scene and found the man dead with multiple gunshot wounds. Police say there were also several pistol casings.
"All I heard was like three loud bangs," said Obi. "They were gunshots."
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According to police, the man has not yet been identified. He’s described only as a young Black male, possibly in his teens or 20s.
"One of my friends said ‘I found a body. I saw blood. It was everywhere on the floor," said Obi.
Police say a 17-year-old male was also shot and is in the hospital. He was speaking with investigators.
According to police, a third person was also in the elevator and fled the location. Police would like to speak with that person, who has not been identified.
It’s unclear at this time what led up to the shooting, but police believe the people involved knew each other. Police say they don’t believe there is a general threat to the public.
"We know that this isn’t a safe location, but we would really like for them to do more on their end, maybe hire actual officers to station here," said Tracy, another University of Houston.
The Haven at Elgin apartment complex released a statement acknowledging the shooting:
"Haven at Elgin is deeply saddened to learn about the tragic incident that occurred late last night. The circumstances surrounding this incident are currently under investigation, and we are fully cooperating with local law enforcement. We understand that this event has raised concerns among our community members, and we will continue to keep the community informed if additional information becomes available. Our residents and community are our top priority, and we are here to support them during this tragic situation."
The apartment complex where the shooting happened is just across the street from the University of Houston athletic fields and stadiums. Police say some students live at the complex, but the complex is not run by the university.
Anyone with information in this case is urged to contact the HPD Homicide Division at 713-308-3600 or speak anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.