HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — The Houston Police Department is actively searching for a suspect involved in the murder of a 14-year-old boy.
The shooting occurred on Saturday at an apartment complex located at 8800 Hammerly Blvd. in Spring Branch. The victim, Abraham Choukair, was the youngest of three brothers and the first their parents had to bury.
“It is a different kind of anger. Anyone who has lost a family member in such a tragic way can understand how frustrating it is to not have answers,” one of Abraham’s brothers expressed.
On Monday, Houston police released surveillance photos of the suspect believed to have pulled the trigger.
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On Tuesday, Abraham’s brothers spoke to ABC13 while awaiting an arrest but requested anonymity for their family’s safety.
“We don’t know exactly why this happened,” said one of the victim’s brothers. They suspect Abraham may have been involved with the wrong crowd, which ultimately cost him his life—a reality they are struggling to comprehend.
“I am military, and he is a paramedic. We see death around us and prepare for ours with life insurance, plans, and wills. It is shocking that it is our little 14-year-old brother, with his whole life ahead of him,” one brother shared.
The tragic truth is that teen gun violence is on the rise in Harris County. Data obtained by 13 Investigates reveals that the county’s juvenile homicide rate has surged by 76% from 2021 to 2023.
Adding to the family’s anguish, a 14-year-old was shot last year at the same complex where Abraham was killed. That victim was shot three times in the stomach and survived, while the shooter fled.
“These are children dying. I left to protect my country, and I was hoping my country would protect its streets and children,” Abraham’s brother said.
The brothers credit their careers with keeping them out of trouble and hoped Abraham would find his path too, but he was denied that chance.
“I hope and pray that no more families go through this. One family is enough. I think I speak for both of us when I say that,” Abraham’s brother concluded.
