Darrick Ward, 38, was killed during a home invasion in Houston, Texas, on May 31, 2016. He was staying at the residence when an unexpected and violent break-in occurred; responding Houston Police Department officers and paramedics pronounced Ward dead at the scene. Reports say an 18-year-old, Julius Merchant, entered the home and fatally shot Ward. During the same attack Merchant reportedly pistol-whipped a female occupant, who was treated at a hospital and released.

Merchant was later apprehended by SWAT officers and charged with capital murder; authorities noted he was already wanted on unrelated charges, including felony evading arrest. The killing was described as particularly brutal and was cited alongside other violent incidents in Houston that year.

If anyone knew Ward or has information about the May 31, 2016 home invasion in Houston, please come forward with what you remember.