Conroe Teen Charged with Murder in Shooting Death
16-year-old Julian Velasquez is charged with murder for fatally shooting classmate Miguel Almaraz (17) in Conroe.
CONROE — A 16-year-old Conroe High School student is facing a murder charge following the fatal shooting of a classmate on Sunday evening, according to the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office.
Julian Isaiah Velasquez was taken into custody on Monday, March 25, one day after 17-year-old Miguel Almaraz was found dead from a gunshot wound in the 11000 block of FM 1484.
Deputies were initially dispatched to the scene at approximately 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 24, following a 911 call placed by Velasquez. According to investigators, Velasquez initially claimed that the shooting was accidental and occurred while the two teens were handling a firearm.
However, the narrative shifted as detectives with the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office Violent Crimes Unit interviewed witnesses. A second juvenile who was present during the incident reportedly told deputies that the shooting was not an accident. The witness alleged that Velasquez intentionally pointed a .40 caliber pistol at Almaraz and pulled the trigger.
The firearm involved in the incident was recovered by law enforcement at the scene.
Velasquez is being charged as an adult in the case, a standard legal procedure in Texas for certain serious felonies involving minors. While he has been formally charged with murder, the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office has not released his mugshot due to his status as a minor. His bond has been set at $150,000, and the case has been assigned to the 158th District Court.
The Conroe Independent School District confirmed that both individuals were students at Conroe High School. The loss of a student has left the campus community reeling as counselors and support staff are made available to assist grieving students and faculty.
“Our hearts go out to the family and friends of Miguel Almaraz during this incredibly difficult time,” said a district spokesperson. “We are working closely with law enforcement to support their ongoing investigation and are providing the necessary resources for our students and staff.”
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting remains active. As of Wednesday, officials have not disclosed how the teenagers obtained the weapon or what may have led to the confrontation.
Under Texas Penal Code, a murder conviction carries a penalty ranging from five to 99 years or life in prison. For a 16-year-old defendant, the legal process will involve significant scrutiny regarding the juvenile justice system’s interaction with the adult criminal court.
The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with additional information regarding this incident to contact their office at 936-760-5800 or contact the Multi-County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-392-STOP to remain anonymous.