HCSO: Passenger shot, killed in possible road rage on Beltway 8 in NW Harris County

HOUSTON – A man died after being shot in what appears to be a road rage incident in northwest Harris County Thursday morning, deputies with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office said.

E. Toquica served as HCSO spokesperson during a news conference, detailing the chain of events based on preliminary information.

According to Toquica, occupants in a sedan and a dark gray Crossover SUV were traveling in the 4900 block of Beltway 8, in the mainlanes, around 11 a.m. when something happened, leading someone inside the SUV to open fire on the other vehicle.

Several bullets hit the sedan, and the passenger was struck in the torso. The driver continued to the 13900 block of Hollister Road, where he saw a deputy and explained what happened.

The injured passenger, who was identified as Donnie Williams, 30, died, deputies said.

The shooter, who is believed to be between 25-30 years old, fled the area.

HCSO is asking for anyone with information to come forward. Investigators are reviewing surveillance cameras that are situated along the beltway, but also believe the citizens can do more to help.

“Let’s work at being good witnesses,” Toquica said.

He stressed safety is the number one priority but added that, without putting ourselves in harm’s way, taking photos or writing down license plates numbers - even partial numbers - can aid detectives.

He said road rage is a growing problem across the country.

“It’s a shame and I think we can do better. Unfortunately, it seems to be a national trend, not just here in Houston or the Harris County areas,” Toquica said. “It can happen to any one of us or any one of our family members. We can’t afford to be aggressive drivers. You just can’t even honk at anybody anymore.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact HCSO Homicide at (713) 274-9100 or CrimeStoppers at (713) 222-TIPS (8477).