On May 16, 2025, Houston Police responded to a robbery in progress at the Family Dollar on Almeda Street. A suspect, 33-year-old Earnest Harrison, stolen merchandise and brandished a large knife while threatening store employees.
As Harrison fled across the Southmore Boulevard bridge, an officer commanded him to stop. Harrison then turned toward the officer while holding a machete, prompting the officer—identified as L. Jumonji—to fire once, striking him. Harrison was taken to Ben Taub Hospital in critical condition and later died on May 20.
Officers from Houston’s South Central Patrol responded swiftly. The department has now released the body-worn camera footage of the incident, which clearly shows Harrison advancing with the weapon before the officer used lethal force.
Police emphasized that the shooting followed standard protocol, as Harrison was an imminent threat. The Special Investigations Unit, Internal Affairs, and the Harris County DA are reviewing the case, and Officer Jumonji was reportedly not injured.