HOUSTON, TX — 1 Dead, 14 Injured in Mass Shooting at Family Party in Southeast Houston: Police Investigate Chaotic, Multi-Scene Gunfight Triggered by Uninvited Guest
A night meant for celebration turned into a nightmare in southeast Houston early Saturday morning, after a family party erupted in gunfire, leaving one person dead and 14 others injured, including several who remain in critical condition, according to the Houston Police Department.
Authorities described the scene as “chaotic” and “ongoing” as they continue to piece together what happened in the early hours of May 4, 2025. The violent outburst took place on Cherryhill Drive, near the South Loop and Mykawa Road, just before 1 a.m., and quickly escalated into what police are calling a multi-scene shootout.
A Party Turned Violent
According to Assistant Chief Patricia Cantu, the incident began as a family gathering with dozens in attendance — a festive environment that was shattered when an uninvited individual showed up and was asked to leave by those hosting the event.
“He left. As he was leaving, he began shooting in the area,” said Cantu during an early morning press briefing. “There was return fire from the residents as well.”
The resulting shootout spread across multiple locations on and near the property, creating a widespread and disorienting emergency for arriving officers and first responders. When police arrived within three minutes of the initial 911 call, they were still hearing gunfire, according to Cantu.
Victims and Response
A total of 14 individuals were injured by gunfire, and one person died at the scene. Some victims were taken to local hospitals by ambulance, while others self-transported or were helped by bystanders amid the chaos. Police said several of the injured remain in critical condition, with ages of the victims ranging from young adults to middle-aged attendees.
Photos and video from the scene show multiple evidence markers, shattered glass, and bloodstains on the pavement — grim reminders of the intensity of the gunfire exchanged during the incident. Officers cordoned off the area as investigators combed through several blocks looking for ballistic evidence and interviewing witnesses.
“This is a very active and complicated investigation,” Cantu said. “We’re talking about multiple shooters, a large crowd, and a lot of conflicting information to sort through.”
Suspect and Witnesses
While police have not yet released a name or official description of the suspected shooter, Cantu said investigators have detained several individuals for questioning and are working to identify who among them may have opened fire. No arrests had been made at the time of the last update.
Cantu urged anyone who was at the party to contact authorities with any information that could help them in the investigation. The Houston Police Department Homicide Division is leading the case.
“Homicide will later start pushing out suspect information to get your help to get this person detained and arrested,” Cantu said.
Witnesses or individuals with tips can reach the HPD at 713-308-3600 or submit information anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS (8477).
Community Shock and Next Steps
The mass shooting has sent ripples of grief and fear through the southeast Houston community, raising renewed concerns about gun violence, even in seemingly safe, private gatherings. Residents in the area say Cherryhill is generally quiet, making the incident all the more alarming.
City leaders are expected to address the shooting and call for increased community cooperation in upcoming days, especially as the summer months approach — typically a time when gun violence spikes in urban areas.
Police say they are working diligently to identify all shooters involved and will pursue charges where appropriate. In the meantime, local hospitals are working to stabilize the injured, and victim advocates are being brought in to assist the families affected.
A City on Alert
This tragedy marks one of the largest mass casualty shooting events in Houston so far this year and highlights the growing concern over gun-related violence at private events. As more details emerge, law enforcement is encouraging the public to remain vigilant and to report suspicious behavior before conflicts escalate.
As Assistant Chief Cantu concluded:
“This should’ve been a celebration with family. Instead, it turned into a scene of tragedy. We will not rest until we have answers and those responsible are held accountable.”
This is a developing story and will be updated as more details become available.