January 9, 2023 - The fatal shooting of a robbery suspect at 6873 South Gessner Road about 11:30 p.m. last Thursday (Jan. 5) will be referred to a Harris County grand jury.

Surveillance photos of the male shooter wanted for questioning were released the following day (Jan. 6).

Today (Jan. 9), the male, 46, was questioned by Houston police homicide detectives in the presence of his attorney.  After consulting with members of the Harris County District Attorney's Office, it was determined the shooting will be referred to a grand jury.  Since the male is not arrested or charged, his identity is not being released at this time.     

The deceased male is identified as Eric Eugene Washington, 30.

HPD Homicide Division Sergeants M. Arrington, C. Duncan and Detectives S. Overstreet and L. Lovelace reported:

Officers were dispatched to a shooting call at the restaurant at the above address and observed an unknown black male in all black clothing, a black ski mask, and black gloves had been shot multiple times inside the business.  Paramedics pronounced the male, later identified as Eric Washington, deceased. 

Witnesses told officers the suspect entered the restaurant and pointed a pistol at patrons as he demanded their money.  As the suspect collected money from patrons, one of the patrons, described as a white or Hispanic male, produced a gun of his own and shot the suspect multiple times.  The shooter collected the stolen money from the suspect and returned the money to other patrons.  He and other patrons (victims) then fled the scene.

Any patrons present during the time of the shooting are encouraged to contact the HPD Homicide Division at 713-308-3600 to provide statements to investigators.

*MEDIA PARTNERS: Investigators are not available for interviews at this time.



Update: JFC/SOA/JKS      1-9-23
JFC/VHS  1-6-23
Inc #002453523