Earnest Matthews, a 25-year-old African American male, was found dead on October 8, 2019, in his apartment located at the Crystal Springs Apartment Complex in Houston, Texas. Matthews was discovered unresponsive on the bedroom floor by his girlfriend, who immediately called the paramedics. Upon arrival, the paramedics pronounced Matthews dead at the scene, having sustained at least one gunshot wound.
The Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences conducted an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. Matthews was a young father of two boys, Carter and Kaison, and a budding fashion designer who had started his own clothing line, Yung CEO.
The investigation into Matthews' death revealed that he was shot to death in his apartment. Initially, the police had a possible suspect in custody, a man who fired shots at officers responding to the scene. However, it was later determined that this individual was not connected to Matthews' murder. The case remains unsolved, and the Houston Police Department has urged anyone with information to come forward. Matthews' family has raised a $5,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.
Matthews' death has left his family and community in mourning. His grandmother, Julia Batiste, expressed her grief and frustration over the loss of her grandson and the lack of progress in the investigation. She highlighted the impact of gun violence on young families and the need for support for the children left behind. The family has been vocal in their plea for justice, hoping that someone will come forward with information that could help solve the case.
The Houston Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding Matthews' death. Despite the initial arrest of a person of interest, no suspects have been identified, and the case remains open. The police have not yet classified Matthews' death as a homicide, but they have acknowledged the suspicious circumstances. The investigation is ongoing, and the authorities are determined to find answers and bring justice to Matthews and his family.