Ralph Wesley Houston Jr. was an 18-year-old senior at Alief-Hastings High School who died on May 11, 2007. His obituary ran in the Houston Chronicle on May 18, 2007. Ralph’s family included his father Ralph Wesley Houston Sr., his mother Bonnie Houston, and his twin sister Rachelle Houston.

Authorities investigated Ralph’s death as a murder. Clifford James Gratton was charged with capital murder in connection with Ralph’s death; the indictment alleges Gratton intentionally or knowingly caused Ralph’s death during the same criminal transaction that also resulted in the death of Demonceon Coleman. The indictment and court filings state a firearm was used.

The case was prosecuted in the 339th District Court of Harris County, Texas, where testimony and evidence were presented. The loss deeply affected Ralph’s family and community.

If anyone knew Ralph, his family, or has information about the events of May 11, 2007, please come forward.