Donald Matthew Matt Harris, a 59-year-old male of Caucasian ethnicity, tragically passed away on November 18, 2020, in Houston, TX. He was a beloved husband, father, son, and brother who had a passion for sports, teaching, and his faith. Harris was born on April 29, 1961, in Tulsa, OK, and grew up excelling in various activities, including baseball, where he was a state champion in high school.
He later pursued a degree in Accounting from The University of Texas at Austin and had a successful career in banking and teaching.
On April 9, 2020, Harris was fatally shot at a gas station on Greens Road in Houston. Surveillance footage captured the suspect, later identified as Christian Dillard, approaching Harris and shooting him before stealing his belongings and fleeing in Harris' black Cadillac sedan. Harris was transported to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead upon arrival.
Christian Dillard, a 23-year-old male, was arrested and charged with Harris' murder. In July 2023, Dillard was sentenced to three life sentences for the crime. During the trial, Dillard admitted to the killing and expressed remorse, but Harris' family and prosecutors remained skeptical of his sincerity due to his subsequent violent behavior while in custody.
The case drew significant attention from the Houston Police Department, which released surveillance photos of the suspect and sought public assistance in identifying him. Dillard's conviction brought some closure to Harris' family, who described the loss as a result of greed and cruelty.
Harris' death was a tragic event that shook his family and community, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, dedication, and love for his family and students.
