On July 22, 2023, a shooting at Margaret Jenkins Park in southeast Houston during a birthday celebration left 21-year-old Autumn Vallian dead. The incident happened about 1:14 a.m. after an argument between two groups escalated into gunfire; ShotSpotter detected 36 shots fired and officers found Vallian deceased and four others injured when they arrived. Vallian, five months pregnant, was attempting to leave the park when she was struck by a stray bullet. Two of the injured people, described as suspected shooters, were later detained at a hospital and remain in custody while the investigation continues.

Family members held vigils and balloon releases to honor Vallian, remembering her as a dedicated student who had been looking forward to motherhood. Authorities are investigating whether additional suspects were involved, and the family has appealed to anyone with information to come forward. If anyone was at Margaret Jenkins Park that night or has relevant information, please share what is known with investigators.