20-Year-Old Arrested and Charged with Murder in June 2023 Drive-by Shooting in Pine Valley Area of Houston

20-year-old Eduardo Melendez has been arrested and charged with the murder of 28-year-old Joann Cruz. The incident took place on June 18, 2023, at around 1:00 am, outside the residence at 6420 Stratton Street in the Gulfgate Riverview/Pine Valley area of Houston.

Ms. Cruz, along with several family members, was outside their home when a dark blue or purple sedan, possibly an Infinity, drove by the residence multiple times. During the last pass, an unidentified suspect(s) inside the vehicle fired shots, striking Cruz.

Houston Fire Department paramedics responded, transporting Cruz to Ben Taub General Hospital, where she was later pronounced deceased.

Following a thorough investigation, Eduardo Melendez was identified as the alleged shooter. He was subsequently charged and arrested on Thursday, January 11.