HARRIS COUNTY – A chaotic situation involving three people who recently attended the same church in east Houston has led one man to face serious charges.
A man is accused of shooting a 19-year-old woman outside of her east Houston home.
He allegedly confronted her outside her house after she returned home from a church service, according to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.
The shooting happened around 9:37 p.m. on April 14, in the 2100 block of Hartwick Road.
The victim’s boyfriend reportedly witnessed the shooting. After the shots were fired, he ran over the suspect in a reported attempt to defend his partner and disarm the suspect.
The suspect in the incident has been identified as Emanuel Marin, 24.
Marin is facing charges including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and burglary of a habitation with intent to commit a felony, according to the district attorney’s office.
KPRC 2’s Bryce Newberry is at the scene, speaking with neighbors and law enforcement related to the situation.
Through accounts of neighbors and public records, KPRC 2 learned that the victim was the daughter of the pastor of a nearby church.
Marin had recently been asked to stop attending the church about a month ago, after his demeanor was deemed “unacceptable” HCSO said.
Shooting Outside Gated Home
Investigators said the woman had just arrived home when she encountered a 24-year-old man who had been on the property in recent days.
During a verbal confrontation with him, she tried to run away.
Shots were fired, and at least one round struck her in the shoulder as she attempted to leave the scene in her vehicle.
The victim was later transported to a hospital and underwent emergency surgery, officials said.
Boyfriend Intervenes After Shooting
According to HCSO, the victim’s boyfriend, who was following her in a separate vehicle at the time, witnessed the shooting unfold.
In an effort to stop the suspect, he struck him with his vehicle.
Marin was later transported to a hospital and treated for injuries sustained from the vehicle. He was treated and released into HCSO custody.
Investigation Shifts to Church Connection
Detectives have since been seen investigating a church along the same street of the house where the shooting took place. The church is also where the victim’s father serves as a pastor.
The church displays signage indicating an 8 p.m. Tuesday service.
Authorities said all three individuals had attended the same church in recent weeks, and Marin was reportedly asked to stop attending about a month ago due to alleged behavioral concerns.
Officials initially referenced possible stalking behavior, but later clarified there is no documented history of prior stalking calls or restraining orders connected to the case.
Ongoing Investigation
HCSO says the investigation remains active as detectives continue to piece together the events leading up to the shooting and the confrontation outside the home.
No additional suspects are being sought at this time.