Man says cousin died in his arms after stray bullet hit his loved one outside SW Houston hookah bar

Ruthie McNeese, a 34-year-old woman tragically killed by a stray bullet, has been identified by her family. Houston police are actively seeking the suspects responsible for the shooting incident that occurred outside Vegas Hookah Bar and Grill early Sunday morning.

According to McNeese’s family, the night was meant to be a casual outing with her cousin, Reginald Fontenot, and niece, Elantra Downey. However, they decided to leave when a confrontation erupted among a group of men inside the establishment. Although security ejected the men, the conflict escalated into gunfire in the parking lot.

During the chaos, Downey recounted trying to shield McNeese from the gunfire before seeking safety. Tragically, McNeese succumbed to her injuries despite efforts to save her, passing away in Fontenot’s arms.

While one individual involved in the altercation sustained gunshot wounds, McNeese’s family is left mourning an irreplaceable loss. They are rallying together to ensure the well-being of McNeese’s 15-year-old son, who now faces life without his mother.

Describing McNeese as vibrant and caring, her family fondly remembers her as the life of the party, always bringing positivity wherever she went.

To support McNeese’s son, her family has initiated a GoFundMe campaign, and they plan to hold a balloon release ceremony in her honor at Sunflower Park.

Authorities urge anyone with information about the incident to contact the Houston Police Department’s Homicide Division.

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