Man dead from self-inflicted gunshot wound after police respond to welfare check near NRG park

HOUSTON – A man fired gunshots as police and firefighters responded to a welfare check call near NRG park Wednesday.

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The Houston Police Department said the incident happened in the 7900 block of North Stadium Drive, between S. Braeswood Blvd. and Old Spanish Trail.

Assistant Chief Wyatt Martin with HPD said officers were called for a welfare check around 1:16 p.m.. They went to the apartment, but were unable to get an answer from anyone when they first arrived.

Martin said family members from another state called police to check on the man after they said he made concerning statements to them about his well being.

Fearing for the man’s safety, police called the Houston Fire Department and at 2:14 p.m., officers entered the apartment after firefighters were able to force open the door.

The officers announced their presence and asked if anyone was there.

“Unfortunately at that time someone in the apartment fired several rounds with a firearm. We don’t know for certain whether the rounds were fired directly at the officers but they were fired in the vicinity of the officers,” Martin said.

At least two gunshots were fired by the man as officers were inside the apartment, according to Martin.

Officers retreated and took cover back outside. They continued trying to communicate with the man before they heard another gunshot. Martin said they believe the man took his own life at that time.

A SWAT team was called and arrived around 4 p.m. They were able to check the apartment and found the man dead inside.