On the evening of March 28, 2025, 28-year-old African American male Benny VanRoss was fatally shot in the parking lot of a convenience store located at 9301 Fondren Road in southwest Houston, Texas. According to the Houston Police Department the incident occurred around 10 p.m. VanRoss was reportedly standing outside his vehicle, engaged in conversation with a female acquaintance, when an assailant approached from behind and shot him once in the upper body.
Emergency responders from the Houston Fire Department arrived promptly but pronounced VanRoss deceased at the scene.
Surveillance footage released by HPD depicts three Black males, all believed to be in their 20s, present at the scene during the time of the shooting. One individual, considered the primary suspect, is seen wearing a black T-shirt, sweatpants with white stripes, and a black ball cap. The other two individuals are classified as persons of interest: one is dressed in a white sweatshirt, and the other is wearing all black attire along with eyeglasses. Authorities believe these two may possess critical information pertinent to the case.
As of the latest updates, no arrests have been made in connection with the homicide. HPD's Homicide Division, led by Detectives D. Lunceford and J. Jorsch, continues to investigate the case. The department urges anyone with information regarding the identities or whereabouts of the individuals captured in the surveillance footage to contact the HPD Homicide Division at 713-308-3600 or to provide anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.
Benny VanRoss's untimely death has been acknowledged by the Gun Violence Memorial, where he is remembered as a victim of gun violence. Community members have lit candles in his honor, reflecting the sorrow and loss felt by those who knew him.
The investigation remains active, with law enforcement seeking public assistance to bring those responsible to justice. The Houston community continues to mourn the loss of Benny VanRoss, hoping for a resolution to this tragic event.
