Crime
Daveyonne Howard Sentenced to 40 Years for Murder of 11-Year-Old Darius “DJ” Dugas
Daveyonne Howard, a 22-year-old Houston man, was sentenced to 40 years in prison for the tragic 2022 shooting death of 11-year-old Darius “DJ” Dugas, Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg announced.
The incident occurred on February 3, 2022, during a severe winter storm at an apartment complex in northeast Harris County. DJ had gone to his family’s car to retrieve his jacket when Howard, who was breaking into another vehicle nearby, was confronted by the car’s owner. In a panic, Howard opened fire, aiming at the car owner. Tragically, DJ was struck in the chest by one of the bullets.
Emergency responders rushed DJ to the hospital, but he succumbed to his injuries. Days later, Howard was apprehended and charged with murder. Earlier this year, he pleaded guilty to the charges.
During a punishment hearing, Howard was sentenced to 40 years in prison. Under Texas law, he will be required to serve at least 20 years of his sentence before becoming eligible for parole.
“DJ’s life was stolen in a senseless act of violence, and today justice was served for his family,” said District Attorney Kim Ogg.
BARTOW, FL — Authorities are investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred at 120 Polk Street East in Bartow.
The incident resulted in three individuals sustaining gunshot wounds, including a Bartow Police Department (BPD) officer, a public safety aide (PSA) officer, and the suspect involved.
Emergency medical services were immediately requested at the scene to provide critical aid to all three gunshot victims.
The conditions of the injured individuals have not yet been released.
The circumstances leading up to the shooting remain under investigation.
Law enforcement officials have secured the area as forensic teams and investigators begin processing the scene.
Additional information, including the identities of those involved and any potential charges, is expected to be released as the investigation progresses.
Authorities are asking the public to avoid the area and allow emergency crews to continue their response efforts without obstruction.