Teen charged with Capital Murder in shooting death of recent North Shore grad

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A 16-year-old has been arrested and charged with capital murder in the fatal shooting of 17-year-old Jayden Ford in the Cloverleaf area of Houston. Investigators say the shooting appeared to be robbery-related, with the suspect wearing a hoodie and mask when he shot Ford during an attempted robbery. Ford had just graduated early from North Shore High School and planned to study welding at San Jacinto College.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the ongoing issue of youth violence and the need for greater community efforts to address the root causes and provide support for at-risk youth. Ford's death has deeply impacted his family and the broader community, underscoring the devastating consequences of such senseless acts of violence.

The details

According to the Harris County Sheriff's Office, the 16-year-old suspect was arrested on Friday by the Violent Criminal Apprehension Team, with assistance from the Texas Department of Public Safety and HCSO K9 units. The shooting occurred on Thursday around 5 p.m. at an apartment complex on Uvalde, south of Wallisville Road. Witnesses said a fight broke out between a group of teens, and the masked suspect shot Ford during an attempted robbery. Ford was taken to the hospital, where he later died.

• The shooting occurred on Thursday around 5 p.m.
• The 16-year-old suspect was arrested on Friday

What they’re saying

What’s next

The 16-year-old suspect has been charged with capital murder and is currently being held in the Harris County Juvenile Detention Center. Detectives from the Harris County Sheriff's Office Homicide Unit continue to investigate the incident and are asking anyone with information to contact them or Crime Stoppers.