Shooting occurs 1 hour after HPD, Finner give press conference on Third Ward after promise of patrol

In response to concerns raised by residents about rising crime rates in Third Ward, the Houston Police Department followed through on its promise to bolster overnight patrols over the weekend. This decision came after Chief Troy Finner engaged with the community during a Thursday meeting, where residents expressed their worries.

However, shortly after HPD held a press conference Saturday night announcing the increased presence, officers responded to a shooting incident. According to investigators, around 11:30 p.m., an altercation occurred on Rosalie near Milby, where shots were fired at a vehicle, leaving the driver seriously injured. The suspect was swiftly detained by officers, and two firearms were recovered from the scene.

This incident occurred less than a week after another shooting incident just two miles away, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by the neighborhood. Chief Finner, alongside Houston City Council Member Carolyn Evans-Shabazz, held a town hall meeting where residents called for various measures to address the crime surge, including enhanced patrols, surveillance cameras, and noise regulations for bars and nightclubs.

Chief Finner emphasized the importance of community engagement in tackling crime issues, pledging to increase police presence in the area. He underscored the need for cooperation with local businesses to ensure residents’ safety and rest.

During the weekend, HPD officers confiscated multiple firearms and took various enforcement actions, including traffic stops and citations. Meanwhile, community leaders are exploring additional strategies, such as installing safety cameras and improving street lighting, to enhance neighborhood safety.

Despite these efforts, residents are eager to see comprehensive solutions beyond law enforcement measures to address the root causes of crime in the area.