Police investigate connection of woman, dog killed in separate shootings

HOUSTON – Houston police are investigating whether two shootings in the Third Ward are connected.

Police said a woman on a bike was killed during a possible drive-by shooting just before 3 a.m. Tuesday in the 2700 block of Sampson.

A couple of blocks away, a man walking his dog was also shot, police said. Investigators said his dog was shot as well and died at the scene.

The woman was taken to a nearby hospital where she died of a gunshot wound in her back. Police said they are still working to verify her identity but described the woman as being in her 30s.

The man's condition is unknown, but officer's said his injuries were non-life-threatening. Police believe he is in his 50s.

Investigators are asking any witnesses who may have seen the gunman or have any information about the shootings to come forward by contacting the HPD Homicide Division at 713-308-3600 or Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.