HOUSTON, TEXAS – A Houston man, Tony Earls Jr., 33, has been indicted by a Harris County grand jury in connection with the tragic shooting death of 9-year-old Arlene Alvarez in 2022. The case has sparked outrage and renewed calls for justice in the community.
District Attorney Kim Ogg emphasized the importance of seeking justice for Alvarez, stating that the grand jury was presented with new evidence to ensure that the truth surrounding the young girl’s death is uncovered. Alvarez was fatally shot while riding in her family’s truck, a heartbreaking incident that shook the city.
The sequence of events leading to Alvarez’s death unfolded when Earls, who had been robbed at gunpoint, fired his handgun at the fleeing robber outside a Chase Bank. Tragically, several of the shots fired by Earls struck the Alvarez family’s passing truck, resulting in the death of the innocent child.
Initially, Earls faced charges of aggravated assault-serious bodily injury, but a previous grand jury’s failure to indict him in July 2022 led to his release. However, a special prosecutor was appointed to reassess the case, ultimately leading to the recent murder indictment against Earls.
The investigation revealed that Earls had a clear line of sight when he fired at the passing vehicle with Alvarez inside, and there was no justification for his actions. The expert opinion supported the belief that Earls’ actions were reckless and unjustifiable, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
If convicted of murder, Earls could face a wide range of sentencing options, potentially ranging from 5 years in prison to life. The case has reignited conversations about gun violence, justice, and the need to hold individuals accountable for their actions in a community striving for peace and safety.
The Alvarez family continues to seek closure and justice for Arlene, who tragically lost her life in a senseless act of violence. The indictment against Earls represents a significant step towards accountability in a case that has deeply affected the Houston community.