Houston Police Department

June 26, 2006 -- Houston police are investigating the fatal shooting of a man at 6405 West Bellfort about 5:50 a.m. today (June 26).

The victim has been identified as Joel Portillo, 17, of 6405 West Bellfort #187. He suffered a gunshot wound to the chest.

HPD Homicide Division Sergeant J. Binford and Officer M. Miller reported:

The victim and his father were leaving their apartment to go to work. As they were walking through the apartment complex to their vehicle, a male approached them and demanded money while pointing a gun at the victim's chest. The victim repeatedly told the suspect he did not have any money. After the fourth demand, the suspect shot the victim. The suspect then held the gun to the father and then ran through the apartment complex. The suspect was described only as a black male in his 20s and wearing black clothing. The suspect may have gotten into a vehicle on the other side of the apartment complex and fled the area.

Anyone with information in this case is urged to contact the HPD Homicide Division at 713-308-3600 or Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.

MES/GO 6-26-06
Inc. #098714406

For additional information, please contact the HPD Public Affairs Division at 713-308-3200.