Houston Police Arrest Charles Ernest Lopez in Connection with Fatal Shooting of Two Elderly Men on Walking Trail
HOUSTON, TX – July 1, 2025 — The Houston Police Department (HPD) has arrested 24-year-old Charles Ernest Lopez in connection with the tragic and senseless killing of two elderly men on a quiet walking trail in southwest Houston. The arrest comes just days after the shocking double homicide left the local community grieving and searching for answers.
The fatal shooting occurred around 5:45 a.m. on Friday, June 27, along a well-known trail in the 14900 block of White Heather Drive. The victims, 68-year-old Natanael Reyes and 74-year-old Guadalupe Flores, were both longtime residents of the area and were known to walk the trail together daily as part of their morning routine.
Emergency responders arrived on scene after reports of gunfire and discovered both men with multiple gunshot wounds. Sadly, they were pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators later determined that the victims had likely been shot from behind, suggesting a sudden and unprovoked attack with no opportunity for the victims to defend themselves or escape.
The suspect initially fled the scene in a white 4-door sedan, which was later identified by law enforcement through community tips and surveillance footage. Working quickly and diligently, HPD’s Southwest Patrol Crime Suppression Team located the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop on June 30.
During questioning, the driver—identified as Charles Ernest Lopez—confessed to his role in the shootings. Based on the evidence gathered and Lopez’s admission, authorities have now charged him with capital murder, and he remains in custody awaiting further legal proceedings.
The motive for the attack has not yet been disclosed, and investigators are continuing to piece together what led to this violent act. At this time, there is no known connection between Lopez and the victims, raising concerns about whether this was a random act of violence.
Community members and local officials are expressing shock and outrage over the killings. The trail where Reyes and Flores were murdered is a popular walking route, frequented by elderly residents, families, and joggers. What was once a peaceful and familiar place has now become the scene of a devastating tragedy.
Family members of both victims have asked for privacy as they grieve their tremendous loss. Tributes and messages of condolence have poured in across social media, with many remembering Reyes and Flores as kind, quiet men who enjoyed their early morning walks and were pillars of the neighborhood.
HPD has assured the public that there is no ongoing threat, and the swift arrest in the case reflects their commitment to protecting the community and bringing justice to the families affected.
Anyone with further information about the incident is urged to contact HPD’s Homicide Division or Crime Stoppers of Houston at 713-222-TIPS (8477).
As the community mourns the loss of Natanael Reyes and Guadalupe Flores, efforts are already underway to increase patrols and safety measures along the trail to ensure such a tragedy never happens again.
Charles Ernest Lopez now faces the full weight of the law, as the case proceeds through the criminal justice system. Authorities have not released any additional details regarding court dates or legal counsel at this time.