Texas Arrests Three Men After Shooting Baseball Coach
Authorities in Waller County, Texas, have detained three individuals following an incident where a baseball coach was shot during pre-game prayers. This occurred just before a Little League game at a park northwest of Houston.
According to Andy Bayes, the founder of Houston Warriors, the coach was praying when he was struck by gunfire from a nearby field. Witnesses described the scene, indicating that the gunfire appeared to come from three men who were reportedly engaging in “target practice” approximately 700 yards away. Notably, there seems to be no designated gun range or area for such activities near RAC Baseball Park.
Baize mentioned that the coach, while trying to protect a child, was shot in the shoulder during what turned out to be a 20-minute exchange of gunfire. He expressed gratitude that a more serious tragedy was avoided, stating it was “very, very emotional.”
Waller County Sheriff Troy Guidry confirmed the arrest of the trio, who face charges related to the reckless discharge of firearms. The potential penalties for their actions, which fall under a third-degree felony in Texas, range from 2 to 10 years. The suspects were identified and charged as follows:
- Mahmood Abdelsalam Rababah, 23 – Charged with Reckless Firearm Discharge; Bond: $100,000
- Ahmad Mawed, 21 – Charged with Reckless Firearm Discharge; Bond: $100,000
- Mustafa Mohammad Matalgah, 27 – Charged with Reckless Firearm Discharge; Bond: $100,000
According to Sheriff Guidry, the suspects fired their weapons from a nearby pasture towards the baseball field. The injured coach was transported via helicopter to Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston for treatment.
In the aftermath of the shooting, a mother expressed her unease regarding the safety of the facility, stating, “We can guarantee that we won’t return to RAC Katy.” She noted the tension during the ordeal, remembering how long it felt while the bullets were flying.
One of the Texas Colts players recounted his experience, mentioning how he thought it was an active shooter situation and sought cover. A teammate also shared that he ducked behind a wall when instructed by a coach, successfully avoiding harm. Coach Corbin Geisendorf echoed the chaos, comparing the event to a war zone, while director Alex Smith raised concerns about the safety of the children during the incident.
The owner of the RAC stated that a disturbing incident unfolded during the baseball game due to nearby recreational shooting, which prompted an immediate police response. Sadly, the coach was injured amidst the chaos and required medical attention.
Subsequently, the facility has suspended future games and practices until law enforcement and an internal investigation determine the necessary safety measures. The owner communicated their commitment to ensuring a safe environment for all visitors.
Waller County Jail records indicate that the three suspects remain in custody, with their bonds set at $100,000 each. Attempts to reach Sheriff Guidry and Waller County District Attorney Sean Whittmore for further comments went unanswered.
