In the Cloverleaf neighborhood of East Harris County, a young life was cut short Thursday evening when 17‑year‑old Jayden Ford was fatally shot during what deputies say was an attempted robbery near an apartment complex off Uvalde Road and Woodforest Boulevard.
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of gunfire just before 5 p.m. at the apartment complex. When deputies arrived, they found Ford with a gunshot wound. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but later died from his injuries, according to sheriff’s officials.
Investigators believe Ford was with a group of other teenagers when a suspect approached the gathering. The suspect, described as wearing a mask and hoodie and armed with a pistol, allegedly opened fire during an attempted robbery before fleeing the scene on foot with other individuals.
Authorities say a dark‑colored sedan was seen leaving the area shortly after the shooting, but it’s not yet clear whether the vehicle was connected to the suspect or the group of teens. Deputies are canvassing the area, reviewing surveillance footage, and interviewing witnesses as the investigation continues.
Friends and family in the community are struggling with the sudden loss of a son and friend. Neighbors described Ford as a typical teenager with his whole life ahead of him, now gone too soon in a flash of violence that has left a neighborhood shaken.
There have been no arrests announced yet. Sheriff’s deputies are urging anyone with information to come forward. Tips can be shared with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homicide Unit or anonymously through Crime Stoppers of Houston.
This tragic shooting is the latest in a series of violent incidents in the region that community members hope will prompt renewed focus on youth safety and neighborhood watch efforts.
