An 81-year-old man opened fire at a band contest at Pasadena Memorial High School Saturday evening, injuring one man and shutting down an event attended by hundreds of area high school performers, according to officials.
The incident occurred during the Texas Color Guard Circuit drum line competition at the Pasadena ISD campus, where the shooter, entering through a back door, hid behind a pillar before firing at least one shot from what is described as a "small caliber weapon". The shot was fired down a hallway leading to the auditorium, where performances were taking place, before the shooter was tackled by a courageous parent.
According to police reports, the incident unfolded quickly. Just two minutes after entering the school’s south doors around 6 p.m., the unidentified man fired the weapon, hitting a young adult who was exiting the building. The victim, identified as a percussion technical consultant for Angleton ISD, sustained injuries to his shoulder and was immediately transported to the hospital via LifeFlight. Thankfully, officials reported he was stable and did not lose consciousness during the incident.
Counselors will be available for students and staff affected by the shooting. Pasadena ISD spokesman Art Del Barrio expressed gratitude for the quick action of those present, stating, "A potential tragedy was averted today at Pasadena Memorial High School thanks to the swift and courageous actions of a few Pearland High School parents. We are immensely grateful for their heroic actions, which prevented what could have been devastating."
Del Barrio also noted, "When you look at a situation like this with an active shooter... only one person injured, this thing could have really gone south had he gotten past the front barrier."
The Pasadena Police Department confirmed the attacker was not affiliated with the contest, and as of now, the motive for the shooting remains unknown. Eyewitnesses reported the suspect was apprehended within moments by law enforcement, thanks to the efforts of bystanders.
"We are grateful for the brave citizens and the officers who were on the scene for security at the game and courageously stepped up to detain the shooter and prevent any other violence," stated the Pasadena Police Department on their social media.
Additional police presence is expected at all PISD schools over the coming days as part of the district's efforts to assure student safety. This includes crisis counseling services at both Pasadena Memorial and Angleton High School, as they work to address the emotional toll of the events.
With over 50 schools scheduled to participate in this annual band competition, the shooting prompted immediate lockdown procedures for the remaining competitors and brought the event to an abrupt end. Texas Color Guard Circuit's president, Jessica Torrez, praised the collaborative response from staff and police, emphasizing their fast action, which mitigated what could have escalated.
Overall, the incident has sparked discussions about safety at school events, prompting both parents and officials to call for enhanced security measures at future competitions. The investigation remains active, and charges against the shooter have yet to be filed.
With the community still reeling from the incident, many are focusing on recovery and support for the individuals affected. According to Angleton ISD communications director Hanna Chalmers, their students and staff are returning home safely, bolstering the community’s resolve.