Houston police are asking for the public's help finding a masked gunman they say followed a 31-year-old man into a west Houston apartment complex on Town Park Drive and fatally shot him. The victim was later identified as 31-year-old Carlos Padilla.
Police release surveillance photos
On Feb. 20 the Houston Police Department released surveillance images showing a man in a black ski mask and a red T-shirt, along with a black van believed to have fled the scene, according to Houston Police Department. Officers said they were called to the complex around 6:40 p.m. on Oct. 21 and found Padilla with gunshot wounds.
Investigators say the suspect followed the victim into the complex, then ran up to him, fired multiple shots and took off on foot. The black van is believed to be connected to the killing.
Victim identified
Officials identified the victim as Carlos Padilla, 31, who was pronounced dead at the scene, as reported by ABC13 Houston. The motive remains under investigation and no arrests have been announced.
Tip line and reward
Crime Stoppers HOU posted about the case on X on Feb. 25 and said tipsters who call 713-222-TIPS (8477) may be eligible for a cash reward up to $5,000. HPD's Homicide Division can also be reached at 713-308-3600 for anyone with information.
Where it happened
The shooting took place at an apartment complex at 9303 Town Park Drive, near the West Beltway 8 and the Westpark Tollway in Houston's Chinatown area. The complex and the Oct. 21 killing were previously covered in Hoodline's earlier report on the fatal shooting at Town Park Drive.
How to help investigators
Anyone with information is urged to contact the HPD Homicide Division at 713-308-3600 or Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS (8477). Tips can be anonymous and may qualify for a reward. Investigators say they are especially interested in surveillance footage or information about a black van seen near the complex on the evening of Oct. 21.
