HOUSTON — A drive-by shooting outside Bugs Bar in southeast Houston left two individuals dead and 15 others injured late Sunday night. The victims included 21-year-old Destini Butler and well-known local barber Paul “Junebug” Stevenson.
The shooting occurred just before midnight in the 6500 block of Dixie Drive, where a crowd had gathered outside the establishment. According to authorities, shots rang out from a vehicle as it passed by, striking numerous people. Among the injured, one victim succumbed to their injuries at the scene, while another was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at a nearby hospital.
“As we gathered information, it became evident that this was a chaotic and tragic situation,” a Houston Police spokesperson said. The investigation is ongoing, but police have stated that they believe the culprits were traveling in a black sedan. They are still piecing together the events that led to the violent outburst and have not ruled out the possibility of multiple shooters.
Stevenson, who operated at Something Serious Cuts, was known for his contributions to the community and the barbering profession. Friends described him as a beloved figure who had also been a part-owner of Bugs Bar. Butler, the other individual killed, was remembered by her family and friends as vibrant and full of life, underscoring the toll of this violence on the community.
“This is not just a loss of life; it’s a loss of potential and hope within our neighborhoods,” said community leader Marcus Hill, who expressed deep concern over violence in the area. “We need to come together to address these issues.”
In all, 17 individuals were affected directly or indirectly by the shooting, showcasing the widespread impact of this kind of violence on families and friends. Investigators are working diligently to gather evidence and leads while encouraging anyone with information to come forward.
As the community grapples with this tragedy, there are renewed calls for increased safety measures in nightlife areas to prevent similar incidents. Residents hope that by addressing these issues, they can cultivate a safer environment where violent outbreaks are no longer a concern.