Suspect Arrested in Fatal Shooting of Woman Found at Houston Apartment Complex

A suspect has been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of 37-year-old Maria Flores, who was found unresponsive on the evening of September 4, 2024, at 9430 Concourse Drive. Daniel Vargas Cartagena, 30, has been charged with capital murder in the 337th State District Court.

At approximately 11:40 p.m., HPD patrol officers responded to a call about a shooting at an apartment complex. Upon arrival, they discovered Flores in a walkway, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Houston Fire Department paramedics pronounced her dead at the scene.

Investigators learned that Flores had been seen walking with a Hispanic male shortly before the shooting. Surveillance photos of the pair were publicly released on September 5. Following further investigation, authorities identified Cartagena as the suspect.

On November 21, members of the Texas Department of Public Safety arrested Cartagena in Karnes County, Texas. He is currently awaiting extradition to Harris County.