Harris County Woman Charged with Murder After Fatal Shooting of Boyfriend at Apartment Complex
HARRIS COUNTY, Texas — A 23-year-old woman is facing a murder charge after a domestic dispute escalated into deadly violence late Sunday night at an apartment complex in northwest Harris County. Authorities say the woman, identified as Derricka Ross, fatally shot her boyfriend, 22-year-old Javion Williams, during a confrontation.
The tragic incident occurred at the Derby at Steeplechase apartments, located off West Road near the Northwest Freeway. The Harris County Sheriff’s Office reported receiving multiple 911 calls around 9 p.m.—some reporting a disturbance and others describing gunshots being fired in the complex.
When deputies arrived, they discovered Williams’ body in a stairwell. He had sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene. A firearm was recovered nearby, which investigators believe was used in the shooting.
A Relationship Turned Deadly
According to Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez, the shooting happened when Williams returned to the apartment to collect his belongings. The details of the confrontation remain under investigation, but officials confirmed that the encounter quickly escalated, ending with Ross allegedly shooting Williams.
While authorities have not disclosed a specific motive, the incident appears to stem from a domestic dispute. Investigators are working to determine whether the shooting was premeditated or occurred in the heat of the moment. They are also examining past interactions between the couple to assess any history of violence or abuse.
Derricka Ross was taken into custody at the scene and later booked into the Harris County Jail. She has been formally charged with murder and is expected to appear before a judge this week. At this time, it is unknown whether she has obtained legal representation or made any statements to police regarding the shooting.
Community Reaction and Broader Concerns
Neighbors at the complex were left shocked by the violent turn of events. Several residents reported hearing loud arguing before the shots rang out, followed by the sound of people running and screaming. One resident, who asked not to be named, told reporters, “It’s heartbreaking. They were so young. We never expected something like this to happen right next door.”
The case has once again brought attention to the ongoing issue of domestic violence in communities across the country. Advocates are urging individuals in troubled relationships to seek help before situations escalate to irreversible tragedy.
“This is yet another tragic reminder of how quickly intimate partner violence can turn fatal,” said a spokesperson from the Houston Area Women’s Center. “We need to continue promoting awareness, access to resources, and early intervention.”
A Life Cut Short
Friends and family members have taken to social media to mourn Javion Williams, describing him as kind-hearted, fun-loving, and full of potential. Many are calling for justice as they try to come to terms with the sudden loss.
“He didn’t deserve this. He had dreams, plans, and so much life ahead of him,” one friend wrote on Facebook.
As the legal process moves forward, investigators will continue to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and review any available surveillance footage from the apartment complex. An autopsy is being conducted to determine the exact cause and manner of death.
Legal Proceedings Ahead
Ross is currently being held at the Harris County Jail, and it is expected that a judge will determine her bond during an upcoming court appearance. If convicted of murder, she could face significant prison time under Texas law, which treats the offense as a first-degree felony punishable by 5 to 99 years—or even life—in prison.
In the meantime, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office is encouraging anyone with information about the incident to come forward, particularly those who may have seen or heard the argument prior to the shooting.
As the investigation unfolds, one thing remains heartbreakingly clear: two young lives have been permanently altered — one lost forever, and the other now entangled in the criminal justice system. The community mourns the loss and is left searching for answers in the aftermath of a violent and senseless act.
