Four people were killed after a man set fire to several houses and shot residents trying to escape their homes engulfed in flames. The four killed includes the shooting suspect.
Houston Chief of Police, Troy Finner held a press briefing and said the Houston Fire Deparment initially responded to a call around 1:07 am, August 28, at the 8000 block of Dunlap Street, Houston, Tx. As the fire vehicles arrived, firefighters had to run for cover as gunshots rang out all around them.
A 40-year-old man described as "african-american", dressed in all back, laid in wait with a shotgun accross the street while homes burned. As residents attempted to exit their homes, he opened fire on them.
The victims were two white males in their 60s killed at the scene and one african-american man approximatelly 40-years-old that was transported to the hospital where he died. Another victim between 40 and 50 years of age was taken to the hospital with a shot wound to the arm.
A Houston police officer arrived at the scene and engaged the suspect. The officer shot and killed him.
Firefighters were able to control the fires and two people were pulled from the burning homes.
The officer who killed the suspect has been placed on administrative leave as is the policy with officer involved shootings. Chief Finner said he is very proud of the 7-year veteran officer who took action and prevented a higher death toll. The Chief also thanked the firefighters who put their lives on the line while responding to this shooting call.
