April 27, 2020 - Charges have been filed against a suspect arrested in the fatal shooting of a man at 5103 Silver Creek Drive about 12:45 a.m. on Sunday (April 26).  

The suspect, Johnny H. Peterson (b/m, 31), is charged with manslaughter in the 338th State District Court.  He is accused in the death of James Ellis Davis, 25.  

A booking photo of Peterson is attached to this news release.  

HPD Homicide Division Sergeant J. Horn and Detective B. Roberts reported:  

HPD patrol officers and Houston Fire Department paramedics responded to a shooting call at an apartment at the above address and found Mr. Davis with a gunshot wound to the neck.  Paramedics attempted to provide medical assistance, but Davis died at the scene.  

A witness told police that Peterson stated he accidentally shot Davis when he tried to pull the gun out of his pocket.  A preliminary investigation indicated Peterson had recently consumed several alcoholic beverages.  

Peterson admitted to investigators he reached into his pocket to retrieve the gun to put into a nearby cabinet.  As he pulled out the gun, he stated it inadvertently discharged and struck Davis.  Peterson was detained at the scene and subsequently charged for his role in Davis' death.