On September 5, 2022, Dominique McCoy, a 17-year-old Black male, was tragically shot and killed at a friend's home in northwest Harris County, Houston, Texas. Dominique was visiting the residence of 17-year-old Reginald Smalls when the incident occurred. According to court documents, Dominique was hiding in the bathroom and intended to play a prank on Smalls by jumping out to scare him.
However, the prank went wrong, and Smalls, startled by Dominique's sudden appearance, reacted by shooting him.
Reginald Smalls was subsequently charged with manslaughter in connection with Dominique's death. During the probable cause hearing, it was revealed that Smalls did not have any prior criminal history, but due to the dangerous nature of the incident, a high bond was set at $100,000. Smalls was also charged with assaulting a public servant after an incident in jail, bringing his total bond to $150,000. Smalls was placed on house arrest with an ankle monitor if he posted bond.
Another individual, Lekedrick Bowden Jr., who was also present at the scene, was charged with tampering with evidence. Bowden attempted to hide the gun used in the crime and has since posted bond.
The case is still under investigation, and authorities are continuing to piece together the events leading up to Dominique McCoy's death. The community has been deeply affected by this tragic event, and the legal proceedings are ongoing as the justice system seeks to address the circumstances surrounding Dominique's untimely death.
