Investigators say a suspected robbery may have led to the death of a 21-year-old man at an apartment complex.
HARRIS COUNTY, Texas — A 19-year-old woman has been charged with murder in connection with the fatal shooting of a 21-year-old man at a north Harris County apartment complex, nearly three weeks after the deadly encounter unfolded in a parking lot along Imperial Valley Drive.
Authorities identified the victim as Devonta Martin, who was found with multiple gunshot wounds on May 22. Investigators said the case remained active for weeks as detectives gathered evidence, interviewed witnesses and worked to determine who was responsible for the killing. The arrest marks the first major development in the homicide investigation, though officials believe additional suspects may still be involved.
Deputies with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of gunfire at an apartment complex on Imperial Valley Drive during the evening hours of May 22. When they arrived, they found Martin lying in the parking lot suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. First responders attempted life-saving measures, but Martin died at the scene. Investigators immediately began processing the area for evidence, collecting witness statements and reviewing any available surveillance footage. The shooting occurred in a residential setting where residents reported hearing gunfire before deputies arrived. Detectives later determined that Martin had been specifically targeted during the incident.
Following weeks of investigative work, authorities arrested 19-year-old Alajai Scott and charged her with murder. Officials have not publicly detailed what evidence directly linked Scott to the shooting or whether prosecutors believe she fired a weapon. Court records indicate she was booked into the Harris County Jail after her arrest. Authorities have also not released information about any prior relationship between Scott and Martin. Investigators said they are continuing to examine witness accounts and forensic evidence gathered from the scene. Law enforcement officials have remained cautious about releasing additional details, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation and the possibility of future arrests.
Detectives believe robbery may have been a motive in the killing. According to investigators, Martin was likely confronted before gunfire erupted in the apartment complex parking lot. Authorities have indicated that evidence suggests more than one person may have participated in the crime. The possibility of a second shooter has become a central focus of the investigation. While homicide cases involving apartment complexes often rely heavily on surveillance footage and witness testimony, officials have not disclosed whether video evidence captured the shooting itself. The case has drawn attention because of the victim’s age and the allegation that the violence stemmed from an attempted robbery.
Prosecutors are expected to move forward with murder proceedings against Scott as the criminal case enters the court system. A judge deferred any bond decision to criminal court, where future hearings will determine how the case proceeds. Investigators continue reviewing evidence and pursuing leads involving possible additional suspects. If authorities identify other individuals who participated in the shooting, further charges could follow. Detectives are also expected to continue analyzing forensic evidence and witness statements as they build the case for prosecution.
Residents of the apartment complex described the shooting as a shocking act of violence in an area where families and young adults live. The parking lot where Martin was found became the center of an extensive law enforcement response as investigators worked through the night. Community members watched as deputies secured the scene and collected evidence. While authorities have released only limited details publicly, the arrest brought a measure of progress for a case that had remained unresolved since May. Martin’s death continues to be investigated as detectives seek a complete account of what happened during the encounter.
The case remains active, with investigators still examining whether additional suspects were involved. Future court appearances for Scott are expected as prosecutors continue presenting evidence related to the May 22 homicide.
Author note: Last updated June 11, 2026.