Houston carjacking: 90-year-old Navy veteran shot dead and run over; Governor offers reward

A 90-year-old Navy veteran was tragically shot and run over with his own vehicle during a carjacking outside a retirement community in Houston during the weekend. In response, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has offered a reward for information leading to the suspect's arrest. The case has garnered national attention, with some referring to the victim as "everyone's grandpa."

The victim, identified as Nelson Beckett, was sitting in his car in the parking lot of the Lone Star Living retirement community at around 12:45 p.m. when he was approached by a man, according to Houston police. The suspect initiated a conversation with Beckett before suddenly attacking him, shooting him, and forcibly removing him from his vehicle.

The assailant then drove off in Beckett's car, running over the elderly man in the process. Beckett was transported to a nearby hospital by Houston Fire Department paramedics but was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

Beckett's stolen vehicle was found abandoned approximately 10 minutes later at a different apartment complex. The suspect remains at large. He is described by authorities as a Black man between the ages of 25 and 30. As of Monday morning, the Houston Police Department's Homicide Division continued to search for the gunman.

Governor Abbott expressed his condolences to Beckett's family and the Houston community, stating, "Texas is already working with our local partners and providing full support in bringing this criminal to justice." Abbott's office is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to the suspect's arrest. Crime Stoppers is also offering an additional $5,000 reward.

Beckett, a retired salesman and active member of his church, was described by his children as a generous and loving man. "He would do anything for anyone," said his daughter, Tami Freunk, to KPRC2. "He loved big and loved his family so much."

Authorities urge anyone with information about the incident to come forward, as the community mourns the loss of a beloved veteran and family man. Those with information are encouraged to contact the Houston Police Department's Homicide Division at 713-308-3600 or submit tips to the Texas Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-252-8477.

This tragic incident comes as car thefts in Houston continue to rise. According to the Houston Chronicle, motor vehicle thefts have increased each year between 2019 and 2023, with the highest surge—around 16%—occurring in 2023.