Man Who Shot And Killed Robbery Suspect, Then Gave Customers Stolen Money Back, Will Not Face Charges

HOUSTON, TEXAS — A 47-year-old man who fatally shot an attempted robber at The Ranchito No. 4 Taqueria will not face charges, as decided by a Harris County grand jury. The incident, occurring on Jan. 5, 2023, was captured on surveillance, showing the man shooting the robber, identified as 30-year-old Eric Eugene Washington, and then returning stolen money to other diners.

The shooter, whose identity remains undisclosed by authorities, left the scene in a red pickup truck and was later brought in for questioning by the Houston Police Department. Grand juries in Harris County, comprised of 12 residents, review cases to determine if there is enough evidence for an indictment. In this case, they found no probable cause to charge the man, emphasizing the community’s role in deciding such cases rather than the District Attorney’s Office.

This decision effectively ends the case against the man who acted in self-defense during the attempted robbery.