A tragic scene unfolded in one of Houston’s most affluent neighborhoods on Monday afternoon, as a suspected burglary attempt escalated into gunfire, leaving one person dead and a private security guard hospitalized. The incident occurred around 2:50 p.m. in the 3200 block of San Felipe Street in the heart of the River Oaks area, just a short distance from River Oaks Elementary School.

According to the Houston Police Department (HPD), officers were dispatched to the scene following multiple 911 calls reporting shots fired in the area. When authorities arrived, they discovered two individuals with gunshot wounds: a deceased male believed to be one of the suspects involved in the burglary attempt, and a wounded private security guard who was quickly transported to a nearby hospital. His condition was described as serious but stable.

Investigators believe the incident began when at least two individuals attempted to break into a property along the high-end San Felipe corridor. The targeted location appears to have been a luxury residence or possibly a business, though officials have not confirmed the exact nature of the property. The suspects were reportedly confronted by a private security guard contracted to patrol the area—an increasingly common presence in River Oaks due to its upscale residences and prominent commercial establishments.

At some point during the confrontation, an exchange of gunfire erupted. One of the suspected burglars was fatally shot at the scene, while the security guard sustained injuries in the line of duty. The second suspect reportedly fled the area on foot or in a vehicle, prompting a large-scale manhunt involving HPD patrol units, K-9 teams, and air support. As of Monday evening, the second suspect remains at large.

Authorities locked down parts of the neighborhood in the immediate aftermath of the shooting, urging residents to remain indoors and avoid the area. River Oaks Elementary School, located just blocks away, was placed on a temporary secure protocol out of an abundance of caution, though officials stated that no students or staff were ever in direct danger.

“This is a stark reminder that crime can impact even the safest communities,” said HPD Assistant Chief Ban Tien during a press conference held near the scene. “Our officers are working diligently to piece together what happened and to bring any remaining suspects to justice.”

The identity of the deceased suspect has not yet been released pending next-of-kin notification. Similarly, the name of the injured security guard is being withheld, but authorities have confirmed he is a licensed professional working for a private firm contracted in the River Oaks area.

Crime scene investigators spent hours combing through evidence, including shell casings and surveillance footage from nearby residences and businesses. Residents in the area reported hearing multiple gunshots and witnessing police and emergency personnel flood the neighborhood within minutes.

“This is not something we expect to see here,” said a local resident who asked not to be named. “We pay a lot for private security and rely on them to keep our families safe. It’s frightening to know that even they aren’t immune to this kind of violence.”

HPD is urging anyone with information about the fleeing suspect or the events leading up to the shooting to contact the department’s homicide division or Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS. Investigators are also appealing for home security footage from residents in the surrounding area who may have captured the suspect during his escape.

As the investigation continues, Monday’s events serve as a sobering reminder of the unpredictable nature of violent crime—even in neighborhoods traditionally considered safe. City officials are expected to meet with River Oaks community leaders in the coming days to discuss additional measures to enhance security and restore residents’ peace of mind.

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