HOUSTON – A north Houston smoke shop is now the focus of a homicide investigation after one of its co-owners was found shot to death inside the business on Saturday.
Houston police say the case unfolded in two key moments: around midnight and then again around noon.
- Investigators believe the shooting happened around midnight.
- Hours later, an employee drove by the store and noticed something unusual. The “open” sign was illuminated, even though the business was supposed to be closed.
The employee went inside and found one of the co-owners dead in the back of the store.
Officers responded to the scene and confirmed the death.
Surveillance video shows suspect entering and leaving
Detectives say surveillance video from inside the store shows a man entering and leaving during the overnight hours.
Police have not released details about how the suspect gained access to the business or what led to the shooting.
Missing vehicle leads to detention
After officers arrived, they learned the victim’s vehicle was missing.
Patrol units later located that vehicle and conducted a felony stop. The driver was taken into custody without incident.
Investigators say the man detained matches the description seen on surveillance footage. He has been transported to HPD homicide headquarters for questioning.
No charges have been filed at this time.
The Harris County Medical Examiner’s Office has not completed the official review to determine the cause and manner of death.
Police say the investigation remains in its early stages.