Two men have been arrested in connection to a mass shooting in the Fort Worth neighborhood of Como, Texas. The shooting, which occurred on July 3, resulted in the deaths of three individuals. The suspects, identified as Christopher Redic Jr. and Brandon Williams, both in their late teens and early twenties, were apprehended by Fort Worth police and now face murder charges.
During a press conference on July 7, Fort Worth Police Chief Neil Noakes announced the arrests and stated that investigators believe the shooting was gang-related. Chief Noakes did not disclose specific details about whom the suspects were targeting, but he did mention that a potential altercation may have sparked the violence.
According to previous reports, the shooting took place on Horne Street at around 11:47 p.m., roughly two hours after a July 4 festival called ComoFest had concluded. The festival, which attracted hundreds of people, was held in a park several blocks away from where the shooting occurred. Authorities have clarified that the shooting was unrelated to the festival and was an isolated incident.
The Tarrant County medical examiner’s office has identified the three victims of the shooting as Paul Willis, Cynthia Santos, and Gabriella Navarrete, aged between 18 and 22. In addition to the fatalities, eight others sustained injuries during the incident.
In response to the tragedy, Chief Noakes mentioned ongoing discussions with the predominantly black community of Como about the future of ComoFest. He emphasized that changes would be made to the after-party events to ensure the safety and well-being of attendees.
Como, with its rich history and close-knit community, has been home to the annual Fourth of July parade for over 70 years. Despite the shooting, Chief Noakes highlighted the resilience and unity displayed by the residents of Como, as they continue to support and care for one another in the wake of this tragedy.
The investigation is still ongoing, and Chief Noakes indicated that there could be further arrests in connection to the case. Meanwhile, Redic Jr. and Williams, the two suspects currently in custody, await their legal representation as they face the murder charges brought against them.
As the community mourns the loss of three innocent lives and takes steps toward healing, law enforcement authorities remain committed to ensuring justice and maintaining the safety of the neighborhood.
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