A Texas homicide investigation involving a deadly park shooting has expanded after authorities arrested a third teenager accused of hiding evidence connected to the case.
Investigators say the shooting happened during a planned fight involving high school students in Beaumont, leaving one 18-year-old dead and several families devastated by another act of youth violence.
Third Teen Arrested in Beaumont Homicide Investigation
Authorities identified the latest suspect as Darien Harrington, 18.
Police arrested Harrington in Lafayette, Louisiana, before transporting him back to Jefferson County, Texas.
According to investigators, Harrington faces a charge of tampering with physical evidence, a third-degree felony under Texas law.
If convicted, he could face:
- Between 2 and 10 years in prison
- A fine of up to $10,000
The arrest comes as police continue investigating the shooting death of 18-year-old Brannon Briggs.
Deadly Shooting Happened During Planned Fight
The shooting happened on May 7 at Perlstein Park in Beaumont, Texas.
According to police, a large group of BISD students gathered at the park for what investigators described as a planned fight.
Officers responded after receiving reports of fighting and gunfire around 3:40 p.m.
When police arrived, they found Briggs suffering from a gunshot wound.
Emergency responders transported him to CHRISTUS St. Elizabeth Hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
Authorities said Briggs died from a single gunshot wound to the back.
Police Say Surveillance Video Captured Evidence
According to a probable cause affidavit, surveillance cameras at the park captured footage allegedly showing Harrington removing a rifle from near Briggs after the shooting.
Investigators said the video showed Harrington hiding the firearm inside a nearby garbage can before officers arrived.
Police believe the act was intended to conceal evidence connected to the homicide investigation.
Authorities later interviewed Harrington, who reportedly admitted moving the rifle after the shooting.
Investigators stated they believe the weapon was important evidence directly tied to the case.
Two Other Teens Face Murder Charges
Two additional suspects, Jean Harrell and Demarion Smith, both 18, have already been charged with murder in connection with Briggs’ death.
According to investigators, police tracked a white Chevrolet Malibu seen leaving the scene after the shooting.
Using surveillance technology and license plate readers, officers located the vehicle about two and a half miles away from the park.
Police later took the vehicle’s occupants into custody.
Investigators said Harrell admitted firing shots toward Briggs because he claimed Briggs pointed a firearm at him.
If convicted, both teens could face life in prison.
Community Reacts to Youth Violence
The deadly shooting has deeply affected the Beaumont community.
Witnesses described seeing a large fight break out before hearing gunshots at the park.
Local leaders and police officials have since called for stronger community involvement to help prevent youth violence.
Beaumont Police Sgt. Haley Morrow urged parents, teachers, coaches, and community leaders to pay closer attention to conflicts among young people before situations escalate.
Mayor Roy West also released a statement expressing concern about rising gun violence and promising continued efforts to improve community safety.
Investigation Still Ongoing
Police say detectives continue interviewing witnesses and gathering additional evidence related to the shooting.
Authorities believe more individuals may have been involved in the events surrounding the homicide.
The investigation remains active.
