SEABROOK, TX - In the early hours of Tuesday, August 29, 2023, at approximately 3:12 a.m., the Seabrook Police Department responded to a reported shooting incident in the 2400 block of Repsdorph Road.
The incident unfolded when an anonymous caller contacted emergency services and claimed to have shot his parents accidentally. The caller indicated that his father had been shot in the neck and was not breathing, while his mother had been shot in the abdomen and might still be breathing. Furthermore, the caller made threats that he would engage law enforcement with gunfire or harm himself if they approached the scene. The caller allegedly possessed an AR-15 rifle.
The call abruptly terminated at 3:17 a.m., leaving officers to respond immediately to the location. Upon arrival, officers swiftly established a secure perimeter around the area and commenced attempts to gather more information about the residents and the situation inside the premises.
Following an emergency disclosure request to the phone carrier, it was determined that the call had originated from a "Text-Now" phone app, thereby making it challenging to directly trace the caller's identity and location. Subsequent inquiries were made to the apartment complex and the lease holders were identified. The lease holders were contacted and promptly confirmed that the situation within the premises was stable and without incident.
Officers conducted thorough checks to ensure the safety of all residents inside the residence and surrounding area. After exhaustive investigation, it was ascertained that the reported incident was, in fact, a swatting hoax, maliciously intended to deceive and provoke law enforcement response.
Law enforcement officials strongly condemn such dangerous and fraudulent activities that divert vital resources and endanger lives. The incident remains under investigation as investigators work to identify the individual or individuals responsible for this unlawful act. Legal consequences for those found culpable in swatting incidents are severe and can result in substantial penalties.
The Seabrook Police Department urges citizens to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities promptly. Anyone with information relating to this incident is encouraged to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation.
