Teen hospitalized after evening shooting in Food City parking lot on Aldine Mail Route, deputies say

Investigation centers on shopping-center area near Eastex Freeway

A teenager was hospitalized in serious condition after a shooting Thursday night in northeast Harris County, prompting an ongoing investigation by the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies were dispatched at about 7:50 p.m. on February 12, 2026, to the 5200 block of Aldine Mail Route, where gunfire was reported in the parking lot of a Food City store near the Eastex Freeway corridor. By the time deputies arrived, the victim had already been taken to a hospital by a private vehicle.

Investigators said the victim is believed to be a 16-year-old male. The injury was described as serious, and the shooting was reported to involve a wound to the teen’s neck.

What investigators have confirmed so far

Authorities documented physical evidence at the scene as detectives worked to establish what led up to the shooting and who may be responsible. Deputies recovered shell casings in the parking lot, and investigators confirmed that at least one vehicle in the area was struck by gunfire. No occupants of that vehicle were reported injured.

As of Friday morning, February 13, 2026, investigators had not released a suspect description and had not publicly identified a motive. Officials said the circumstances surrounding the shooting remained unclear as the case developed.

• Location: 5200 block of Aldine Mail Route, Food City parking lot, near Eastex Freeway

• Time reported: About 7:50 p.m., Thursday, February 12, 2026

• Victim: Male teenager, believed to be 16

• Condition: Hospitalized in serious condition

• Evidence noted: Shell casings recovered; one vehicle hit by gunfire with no reported injuries inside

How tips can shape early-stage shootings investigations

Shootings in commercial parking lots often generate a wide range of potential witnesses, including drivers, shoppers, employees and nearby residents. In cases where victims are transported by private vehicle before first responders arrive, investigators frequently rely on witness statements, video from nearby businesses, and physical evidence—such as shell casings and vehicle damage—to reconstruct the sequence of events.

Authorities urged anyone with information to contact the Harris County Sheriff’s Office or Crime Stoppers.

The investigation remained active Friday, and officials indicated additional information could be released as detectives confirm details and evaluate leads.