HOUSTON – One man was killed and another is in custody after a shooting Saturday at the Seabourne Creek Sports Complex, according to Rosenberg Police Department. Officials said the fatal shooting is related to an on-going family-related dispute.
“We received 911 phone calls about 10:30 in the morning that there were shots fired in the parking lot," police chief Jonathan White said.
The victim, identified as Derwyn Lauderdale, 29, was shot in the abdomen while in the parking lot. He was transported by EMS to the hospital, where he died from his injuries.
Rosenberg police said witnesses identified James Hamilton, 28, as the alleged shooter, who they say was in possession of a stolen handgun.
“The suspect James Hamilton ran into the crowd and acted as he were a spectator and didn’t know what had occurred," Chief White said.
According to Fort Bend ISD, Lauderdale was a first-year teacher and coach at Travis High School in Richmond. He also played football at Bellaire High School in Houston.
“This news has shocked our (Travis High School) community and has left us heartbroken for his family," said principal Sarah Laberge.
Derwyn was a teacher, coach, stepfather and friend that was taken to soon.
“Very unfortunate. We found that Derwyn Lauderdale was the stepfather to James Hamilton children and one of the children were actually there to play football yesterday and unfortunately had to witness the event," Chief White said.
Hamilton has an extensive criminal history across Harris, Brazoria and Galveston counties, which include previous arrests for violation of a protective order, unlawful carrying of a weapon and terrorists threat causing fear of imminent serious bodily injury.
The sports complex had been rented out for youth football games, which is believed to be the reason Hamilton and Lauderdale were present together.
“What a sad set of circumstances that took place during this event,” said White. “Children came to play a game they love, only to have it ruined by a career criminal committing an act of family violence. Our thoughts and prayers go out to those affected by this tragedy and we will pursue appropriate charges so justice may be served.”
Southwest Baptist University mourns the loss of former SBU football player
“We are stunned by this news,” SBU Director of Athletics Mike Pitts stated. “Derwyn had been a member of the Bearcat Family for nearly a decade and we will miss him. Our hearts, thoughts, and (especially) prayers go out to Derwyn’s family and to the coaches and players of SBU Football.”
From 2010-14, Lauderdale was a member of the SBU Football team. He was one of the best wide receivers ever to play at SBU. Following his playing career, he served as a member of the Bearcats coaching staff during the 2018 and 2019 seasons.
“Words can’t express the loss we’re feeling right now as a Bearcat Family,” said Head Football Coach Robert Clardy. “Derwyn leaves a legacy here that will never be forgotten by his former teammates and coaches. He was a great friend and mentor to all.”Lauderdale has his name written all over the SBU record books, ranking in the top 10 in five career categories. He ranks third in receptions, third in receptions per game, fifth in receiving yards, seventh in receiving touchdowns, and ninth in yards per catch. He also ranks third in single-season receptions, and third in most receptions in a game. Please keep the Lauderdale family in your prayers."