A 17-year-old has been charged in connection with the shooting death of LePaul Warren, a senior at Westbury High School. The suspect, Travori Hines, faces charges of murder and unlawful carrying of a weapon following the incident that took place off-campus.
The tragic shooting occurred on Friday morning around 8:30 a.m. at a location near the school where students often gather. According to police reports, the confrontation began when an individual emerged from a wooded area, leading to an exchange of words before Warren was shot.
Campus police and a staff member responded promptly to the scene, attempting to provide lifesaving measures until paramedics arrived. Unfortunately, Warren succumbed to his injuries.
Authorities apprehended Hines later that evening, after conducting surveillance in a nearby neighborhood. A weapon was recovered from him, although it remains unclear whether it was the firearm used in the incident. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is currently verifying this information.
Importantly, Hines was not enrolled in any Houston Independent School District (HISD) schools. Investigators are also planning to execute a search warrant at his residence located close to where the news briefing was held.
LePaul Warren has been remembered fondly by his family, who described him as an exceptional young man, excelling in basketball and football. His uncle, Darwin Prater, expressed the family’s sorrow, stating, “He’s a good kid, and you can’t say nothing bad about him. He’s just a good kid. He’s going to be loved everywhere, and he’s going to be missed by everybody.”
In response to the incident, Westbury High School was placed on a secure status during the investigation, although it did not go into lockdown since the shooting occurred off-campus. Houston ISD reassured the community that students and staff were safe, and crisis counselors were made available on campus to support those affected.
Superintendent Mike Miles conveyed his condolences, saying, “We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of a Westbury High School student. My thoughts are with the student’s family, friends, classmates, teachers, and the entire Westbury community during this incredibly difficult time.”
Support and counseling services will continue to be provided for the school community in the days ahead.
