The Houston Police Department said its Westside patrol officers responded to a reported disturbance on Bellaire Boulevard, near Beltway 8, shortly after 8 p.m. Friday. As an officer arrived, he heard gunfire and called for backup, according to KPRC.
During a press conference later that evening, HPD Lt. Larry Crowson said officers found two men with gunshot wounds: a security guard and a customer described as a man in his 20s. Both were taken to a hospital in serious condition.
Investigators believe the shooting started after the man and his girlfriend entered the grocery store with a dog.
From there, police said an argument ensued and escalated to the point where both the customer and security guard exchanged gunfire.
Security footage shared by nearby business Juicy Box showed several customers rushing out through the emergency exit after hearing the gunshots while a “brave customer” worked on locking the front door.
“We’re thankful our team is safe, and now we’re back OPEN for business,” the company said in its social media post. “Our hearts go out to everyone affected tonight.
HPD said no one else was injured, including the woman and the dog and there was no ongoing threat to the public. Authorities also said the woman stayed at the scene and was being questioned by investigators.
Authorities did not disclose what charges would be filed, but an investigation remains underway.