Vendor shot after confronting suspected thieves at Traders Village in NW Harris County, sheriff says

HOUSTON – An investigation is underway after a vendor was shot Sunday night following a confrontation with suspected thieves, according to Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez.

The shooting was reported at Traders Village, a flea market located in the 7900 block of N. Eldridge Parkway around 5:30 p.m.

Deputies said a male vendor told them two individuals stole name-brand clothing items from his stall. The vendor went to confront the two men to get back the items. A physical altercation then occurred between the two suspects and the vendor, according to HCSO.

At some point, deputies said one of the suspects pulled out a gun and shot the vendor in the back. The two suspects, who were identified as Raul Ernesto Rapalo, 36, and Shelby Ostigin, 28, then fled the scene on foot, HCSO said.

Gonzalez said the gunshot victim was transported to a nearby hospital by an ambulance in critical condition while the suspects were detained.

Deputies said Rapalo was charged with aggravated robbery and unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon and Ostigin was charged with aggravated robbery. The victim remains hospitalized, HCSO said.

There is video surveillance of the incident and a few witnesses, deputies said. Authorities said the vendor is known by many and has been a vendor there for 10 years.