Elston Morris Howard, a 24-year-old African American male, was a dedicated officer with the Houston Police Department's Vice Division. On the night of July 19, 1988, Officer Howard was inside the Empire Adult Bookstore on Richmond Avenue, Houston, TX, to issue citations for city ordinance violations. While completing his paperwork, Robert Mitchell Jennings, a man with a prior robbery conviction, entered the store with the intent to commit a robbery.
Upon seeing Officer Howard, Jennings shot him three times at close range. Despite Howard's attempts to flee, Jennings shot him once more in the head while he was lying on the floor.
Officer Howard was rushed to Ben Taub Hospital but was pronounced dead early the next morning, July 20, 1988. Jennings was later arrested after seeking medical attention for a gunshot wound to his hand. The investigation revealed that Jennings had been paroled after serving ten years of a 30-year sentence for a robbery spree. He was charged with capital murder and sentenced to death. Jennings remained on death row for over three decades before being executed on January 30, 2019.
The tragic death of Officer Howard deeply affected the Houston community, with thousands paying tribute to him during his funeral. He left behind his parents, siblings, daughter, and fiancée. The case also led to the arrest and conviction of Jennings' accomplice, who was sentenced to 55 years in prison.
Officer Howard's legacy continues to be honored by the Houston Police Department and the community he served. His dedication and sacrifice are remembered by those who knew him and by those who continue to uphold the values he stood for.
