Alleged Halloween party shooter faces additional charges

TEXARKANA, Texas (KSLA) — The suspect in the shooting at a Halloween party in Texarkana, Texas, now faces a murder charge and nine accounts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, according to Bi-State Detention Center.

Keuntae McElory’s bonds now total $1.95 million.

Detectives spoke with several of McElory’s family members and friends as police searched for the 21-year-old after a warrant was issued for his arrest. Police say he eventually turned himself in late Sunday morning.

McElroy was questioned, arrested and then booked early Sunday, Oct. 31 on one count each of murder and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Authorities added eight more assault charges Tuesday, Nov. 2.

The charges arise from a shooting around 11:55 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 30 during a Halloween party at Octavia’s Activity Center at West 24th Street at Texas Boulevard.

Officers who were investigating several reports of gunfire at the party venue in the 2300 block of Texas Boulevard at 11:56 p.m. Saturday found a large number of people running from the building. Authorities estimate there were at least 200 people inside when the shooting occurred.

Police found people inside the building suffering from gunshot wounds. They were taken to Wadley Regional Medical Center and Christus St. Michael Hospital by ambulance, police unit and private vehicle, authorities said.

A 20-year-old man died a short time later at one of the hospitals. His name later was released by authorities.

The remaining nine victims’ injuries do not currently appear to be life-threatening, police said.

Authorities urge anyone with any information about the shooting to call the Texarkana, Texas, Police Department at (903) 798-3116 or call Texarkana Area Crime Stoppers at (903) 793-STOP.

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