Suspect Arrested, Charged in Fatal Shooting at 900 East 40th 1/2 Street

June 22, 2009 - Charges have been filed against a suspect arrested in the fatal shooting of a man and wounding of a woman at 900 East 40th ½ Street about 12:10 a.m. on June 8.

The suspect, Harry Dwight Williams (b/m, DOB: 7-13-62), is charged with murder and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon in the 209th State District Court. He is accused in the killing of James E. Smith Jr., 19, of Houston. Mr. Smith suffered multiple gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene. A female victim, Smith's girlfriend, also suffered multiple gunshot wounds and was transported to Ben Taub General Hospital in critical condition, but has recovered from her injuries.

HPD Homicide Division Sergeant C.T. Mosqueda and Senior Police Officer X. Avila reported:

Mr. Smith and his girlfriend were at McCullough Park at 900 East 40th ½ Street when Smith got into an argument with Williams. Both men then got into a physical fight and, at some point, Williams pulled out a pistol and shot Smith and his girlfriend several times. Williams then fled the scene immediately after the shooting.

Further investigation and statements from Smith's girlfriend identified Williams as the suspect in this case and on Friday (June 19), he was arrested at his residence without incident.

Update: VHS/JFC
JKS/JC 6-8-2009
Inc. #083207509

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