Aleksis Jenee Cantu, an 18-year-old Hispanic female, tragically lost her life on October 31, 2021, in Houston, Texas. Aleksis was attending a Halloween party in north Houston when an argument broke out between two groups of teens. The altercation quickly escalated, resulting in a shooting that left Aleksis and three other teenagers injured. The incident occurred at approximately 12:45 a.m. at a home on Schilder Drive.
Aleksis was pronounced dead at the scene, while the other victims, including a 16-year-old boy, were transported to the hospital with varying injuries.
Aleksis was a recent high school graduate who had attended Houston ISD’s DeChaumes Elementary, Hamilton Middle School, and Waltrip High School. She was an active member of her community, having played softball for 12 years and served as the captain of her high school dance team. Aleksis was also a member of the National Honor Society and had aspirations of becoming a mental health professional to help others.
The Houston Police Department launched an investigation into the shooting, with initial reports indicating that the altercation was between two groups of teens at a crowded party. Officers found bullets that had gone through the back of the home, and a gun was recovered at the scene. However, it was believed that more than one weapon was used during the incident. The police identified one possible suspect and urged witnesses and potential victims to come forward with any information that could aid in the investigation.
Aleksis's death deeply affected her family, friends, and the community. A GoFundMe page was created to help her family with funeral expenses, and a vigil was held in her memory. Despite the ongoing investigation, no arrests had been made at the time, and the search for the shooters responsible for the tragic event continued. The Houston Police Department encouraged anyone with information to contact their homicide division or Crime Stoppers to assist in bringing justice for Aleksis Jenee Cantu.
