Terry Evans Jr., a 36-year-old African American man from Azle, TX, tragically died on June 21, 2022. He was shot and killed by Mark Winger, a 58-year-old employee at Carter's Country store in southwest Houston. The incident occurred after Evans allegedly shoplifted from the store. Surveillance footage shows Evans taking money from the cash register before attempting to flee the store.
Winger pursued him and shot him in the back as he ran out.
The shooting sparked controversy and led to a grand jury indictment of Winger on murder charges. Winger claimed he acted in self-defense, but the video evidence contradicted his account. Evans' family has been vocal about seeking justice, stating that their unarmed son was unjustly killed. The case has raised questions about the use of deadly force in protecting property and the legal justifications for such actions.
The investigation revealed that no one from the store called 911 immediately after the shooting, and the initial story told to the police was misleading. The Evans family's attorney, Jason Gibson, emphasized that the surveillance video showed Evans only had a Styrofoam cup, not a weapon. Despite the lack of a weapon, Winger fired multiple shots, fatally wounding Evans.
The case has drawn attention to issues of racial bias and the treatment of individuals with mental health issues. The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People President Bishop James Dixon commented on the incident, stating that shoplifting is wrong but does not justify the use of deadly force. The legal proceedings continue as the Evans family seeks justice for Terry Evans Jr.'s death.
