Houston, Texas – Four teenagers are currently facing capital murder charges related to a fatal robbery at a convenience store in southeast Houston last month. The juvenile male suspects, aged 14, 14, 16, and 16, have been referred to the Harris County Juvenile Probation Department. Their identities and booking photos will not be disclosed to the public.
The charges stem from the death of 42-year-old Steven Mendoza De Luna, who was working at the convenience store along the Gulf Freeway and Monroe Road during the incident. In the early hours of March 20, three suspects entered the store and attempted a robbery. Tragically, during the robbery, one of the suspects shot De Luna, resulting in his untimely death at the scene. While the store clerk reportedly had a firearm, it remains unclear if he was able to defend himself in any way.
Following the shooting, the three suspects fled the scene in their vehicle. Fortunately, no customers were present in the store at the time of the incident. Subsequent investigations led to the identification of the four suspects involved in the crime. Two 14-year-old suspects were apprehended about a week after the robbery, while the two 16-year-olds were arrested earlier this month.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deadly shooting. The incident has raised concerns and shed light on the vulnerability of workers in these establishments and the risks they face while on the job. The community mourns the loss of De Luna and seeks justice for the senseless act of violence that claimed his life.