Man, 62, Dies After Being Shot In Car
POSTED: Monday, December 18, 2006
UPDATED: 4:57 pm CST December 18,
2006
HOUSTON -- A man died after he was shot in his car on Monday, apparently for his wallet, KPRC Local 2 reported.
Houston police said Robert Hooker, 62, was found in the 6400 block of Hirsch Road near King Street, near Busby Park, at about 6:30 a.m.
Police said a bullet went through the driver's side of the car and struck Hooker under his left arm, penetrating his heart.
He was transported to Ben Taub Hospital, where he died.
Police said the victim was found in a green Ford Escort in a lane of traffic. His car was still running when he was found. Hooker had apparently been shot while waiting for a train to pass, according to authorities.
Officials said they have not found any witnesses.
"This is a heavily traveled street," L. Benavidez said. "At 6:30 in the morning there had to be other vehicles out here."
Investigators said the motive for the shooting may have been a robbery or carjacking. The victim's wallet was missing, police said.
Hooker was a diesel mechanic at Merfish Pipe & Supply.
"(He was) a valued employee of our company, an excellent man to work with who brought a lot of integrity to the workplace," Gerald Merfish said.
Neighbors said Hooker would be missed.
"He's just a good-hearted person -- just a sweet person. I mean, he would just help anybody," Alma Mitchell said.
Hooker leaves behind a wife, three children and several grandchildren.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.
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