What should have been a late-night light show turned ugly in northwest Houston on Saturday, when a dispute over fireworks between neighbors ended with two people shot, according to Houston police.
Officers said a suspect was detained at the scene and the two wounded neighbors were taken to area hospitals with injuries described as non-life-threatening. Detectives with the Houston Police Department are investigating and have asked anyone who saw what happened to come forward.
What police said
According to KHOU, the trouble started after a gathering where neighbors were setting off fireworks and an argument broke out. That argument turned physical, and, as the station reports, gunfire followed, leaving two people hit before first responders arrived.
KHOU also reports that investigators are reviewing video and taking statements from witnesses as they work to piece together the chain of events.
Scene and response
Officers were called out shortly after midnight, according to local coverage, and they detained one person at the scene while securing the area. Fox26 Houston reports that the two shooting victims were taken to nearby hospitals and that neither was initially listed in critical condition.
Houston police have urged anyone with information, video or firsthand knowledge of the argument or shooting to contact investigators.
Fireworks, the law and safety
The Houston Fire Department is once again reminding residents that discharging consumer fireworks inside city limits is illegal and unsafe. The agency urges people to leave the pyrotechnics to licensed professionals and enjoy public shows instead.
In its safety guidance, the Houston Fire Department notes that fireworks violations can result in fines. Residents are asked to report illegal fireworks use to the Houston Police Department's non-emergency line, and to call 911 if there is a fire or medical emergency.
