On December 9, 2024, at approximately 10 p.m., a tragic incident occurred at the United States Postal Service (USPS) processing facility located on U.S. 90 East in Missouri City, Texas. Kevin J. Hines, a 35-year-old USPS contractor from Houston, was fatally shot at the scene. The assailant, identified as 24-year-old Derrick Deon Lott Jr., a USPS employee, was apprehended and charged with murder.
The shooting took place within the facility, leading to immediate evacuation of employees.
Law enforcement agencies, including the Missouri City Police Department and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, responded promptly to secure the area and initiate an investigation. Authorities confirmed that no other injuries were reported, and there was no ongoing threat to the public.
Derrick Lott Jr. was taken into custody and charged with murder in connection with the fatal shooting of Kevin Hines. At the time of the incident, Lott was out on bond for a previous alleged assault on a peace officer earlier in the year. His bond was set at $2 million.
The USPS processing facility was temporarily closed following the incident, with operations resuming the following day. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service, in collaboration with local law enforcement, is conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Acting Inspector in Charge Mona Hernandez emphasized the commitment to ensuring justice for Kevin Hines and his family.
Kevin J. Hines was remembered by his family and colleagues as a dedicated professional and a cherished individual. His untimely death has left a profound impact on the community, prompting an outpouring of support and condolences from friends, family, and coworkers.
