A violent episode at a United States Postal Service (USPS) processing center in Missouri City, Texas ended in one fatality and the subsequent arrest of a postal worker now facing murder charges.
The tragedy unfolded around 9:45 p.m. on December 9, 2024. The facility, situated on Highway 90 Alt, is approximately 14 miles southwest of Houston.
Kevin J. Hines, 35, a USPS contractor, was discovered dead at the scene with gunshot injuries. Derrick Deon Lott Jr., 24, a USPS employee, was taken into custody and charged with murder.
Investigators reported that Hines was shot in the back of his head. At the time of the shooting, Lott was out on bond for a supposed assault on a peace officer earlier the same year.
The facility was promptly evacuated after reports of an active shooter, leading to dozens of employees assembling outside as the area was secured by law enforcement.
Dana Carter, an inspector with the Houston Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, confirmed, “I can confirm that there was one individual involved. That individual is in custody and the community is safe.”
Mona Hernandez, U.S. Postal Inspection Service Acting Inspector in Charge, noted, “Our employees deserve to feel safe when they come to work.”
Due to the incident, Congressman Al Green, who represents the district where the facility is located, postponed his visit scheduled for December 13. Green and Congresswoman Garcia plan to confer with top postal officials at the North Houston Regional Processing Center to discuss postal matters, including the shooting.
USPS enforces a strict policy that bans employees and visitors from carrying or storing firearms on any postal properties, including parking lots. Violators face the risk of losing their jobs and potential criminal prosecution.
As the investigation continues, mail processing activities at the facility have been halted. Lott’s bond has been set at $2 million.
