An incident at a United States Postal Service (USPS) processing facility in Missouri City, Texas resulted in a fatality, leading to a postal worker being charged with murder.
The tragic event occurred at approximately 9:45 p.m. on December 9, 2024, at the USPS facility situated on Highway 90 Alt, which is roughly 14 miles southwest of Houston, Texas.
Kevin J. Hines, a 35-year-old USPS contractor, was discovered at the scene, having sustained fatal gunshot injuries. A fellow USPS worker, 24-year-old Derrick Deon Lott Jr., was subsequently apprehended and charged with Hines’ murder.
Investigators have revealed that Hines was shot in the back of the head. At the time of this incident, Lott was free on bond from an earlier accusation of assaulting a peace officer.
Upon receiving reports of an active shooter, the facility was swiftly evacuated. Outside, a large group of employees congregated under a heavy police presence.
“I can confirm that there was one individual involved. That individual is in custody and the community is safe,” said Dana Carter, an inspector with the Houston Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
U.S. Postal Inspection Service Acting Inspector in Charge Mona Hernandez remarked, “Our employees deserve to feel safe when they come to work.”
Due to the unfolding situation, Congressman Al Green, who represents the district that encompasses the facility, postponed a planned visit for December 13. Instead, he and Congresswoman Garcia will convene with top-ranking postal officials at the North Houston Regional Processing Center to address postal matters, including the recent shooting.
The USPS enforces a rigorous policy forbidding employees and visitors from bringing or storing firearms on any postal property, including parking areas. Violations can result in termination of employment and potential legal action.
While the investigation is ongoing, mail processing operations at the Missouri City facility were temporarily put on hold but have since reopened. Lott’s bond has been set at $2 million.