A birthday party in Harris County, Texas, turned into a violent shootout when a 63-year-old neighbor allegedly started firing at attendees. The homeowner was hit, and partygoers returned fire, striking the suspect. The suspect, James Thompson, faces multiple felony charges.

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HARRIS COUNTY, TX (2-minute read) — A birthday celebration in northeast Harris County took a dangerous turn when a 63-year-old neighbor allegedly fired at partygoers, leading to a shootout.

The incident occurred Saturday night outside a home on Bradfield Manor Drive, according to Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez. The party was underway when the suspect, identified as James Thompson, reportedly caused a disturbance and got into an argument with several attendees. The situation escalated when Thompson pulled out a firearm and started shooting into the driveway, striking the homeowner.

In response, multiple people at the party reportedly returned fire, hitting Thompson. Both he and the homeowner were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment, and authorities say they are expected to survive.

Following the incident, Thompson was charged with three counts of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon and one count of Tampering with Evidence. Investigators have not released details about what may have triggered the altercation, and it is unclear if anyone else was injured.

Self-Defense and Legal Considerations

This incident highlights the unpredictable nature of violent confrontations and the importance of self-defense laws. Texas has strong protections for individuals defending themselves, especially when an armed attacker poses a direct threat.

Safety Tip: Situational awareness is key in self-defense. Always be mindful of your surroundings, and if you carry a firearm, ensure you understand local laws regarding when and where you can use it legally.