HARDIN COUNTY, Texas — Authorities have identified the victims in Sunday morning’s deadly shooting as 36-year-old Henry Carey Jr. and 29-year-old Khalil Ahmadrian Gooch, both of Kountze, and confirmed that two suspects — 22-year-old Deontray Deshunn Carey Jr. of Beaumont and 21-year-old Kenny Ray Johnson of Baytown — have been charged with two counts of first-degree murder in connection with their deaths, according to Hardin County Sheriff Mark Davis.
The incident unfolded outside a nightclub on Fresenius Road near Silsbee, where all four men had been earlier in the night. According to investigators, as the individuals were leaving the parking area in the early morning hours of Sunday, a minor vehicle accident occurred between them. What began as a small collision quickly escalated into a heated disturbance.
During the altercation, shots were fired, fatally wounding Carey Jr. and Gooch. Emergency responders arrived to find both victims deceased from gunshot wounds.
Suspects Fled but Later Apprehended
Following the shooting, Deontray Deshunn Carey Jr. and Kenny Ray Johnson fled the scene. However, they were later located by Lumberton Police Officers and initially taken into custody on unrelated charges.
After further investigation by Hardin County detectives — including witness statements, forensic evidence, and scene reconstruction — both men were formally charged with two counts of first-degree murder.
They are currently being held in the Hardin County Jail on warrants issued by Hardin County Justice of the Peace Rod Ousley.
Investigation Ongoing
Sheriff Mark Davis said the shooting stemmed directly from the disturbance following the minor crash, noting that no additional suspects are being sought at this time. Detectives continue to review evidence and statements to fully determine what triggered the altercation and how quickly it escalated into deadly violence.
The nightclub parking lot and surrounding area remained secured for several hours as investigators documented the scene, collected shell casings, and examined vehicle damage related to the initial collision.
Community Reaction
The deaths of Carey Jr. and Gooch have shaken the Kountze community, where both men were well known. Officials emphasized that the violence appears to have been isolated to those involved in the confrontation, and there is no ongoing threat to the public.
Sheriff Davis expressed condolences to the families and reinforced the department’s commitment to seeking justice for the victims.
Further updates will be provided as the case progresses and as court proceedings move forward for the charged suspects.
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