A homecoming celebration near Prairie View A&M University in Waller County, Texas, was marred by a shooting on November 5, 2023.
The Waller County Sheriff’s Office reported that the incident resulted in injuries to seven bystanders.
The event, termed a “trail ride pasture party,” began around 10 p.m. and attracted more than 1,000 attendees. What started as a mix of a traditional trail ride and a university homecoming celebration turned violent when a verbal altercation escalated into gunfire.
Responding law enforcement officials discovered four women, two men, and a male juvenile with gunshot wounds. These victims, hit in their lower limbs, were caught in the crossfire and have been classified as innocent bystanders. All injuries were considered non-life-threatening.
The celebration had received official approval but reportedly did not adhere to the agreed-upon security measures at the time of the shooting, prompting concerns about the effectiveness of such protocols at large events. A witness, Chad Burns, said he saw no gun checks being performed on entry. He even saw someone with a gun, and when he told a security guard, it was ignored.
The identity and number of shooters are still unknown, and the Waller County Sheriff’s Office is actively pursuing leads. They are requesting assistance from witnesses and anyone who may have visual evidence of the event to help in their investigation.
Located near Prairie View A&M University and associated with the university’s homecoming weekend, the incident raises concerns regarding student safety and the responsibilities of those organizing such events. The shooting has overshadowed the university’s homecoming celebrations and led to discussions about security at college functions.
