Aldine student shot at Airline bus stop

Benjamin Neal

ALDINE– Authorities are investigating the shooting of an Aldine High School senior, Benjamin Neal, who was waiting to board a bus on Airline at Lorina streets last Thursday morning around 6:30 a.m.
Neal said that a stranger in a blue Oldsmobile stopped to talk with him, and when he walked away the car followed, and a shot rang out. Neal was wounded in the upper arm, but was able to walk home and call for help. He was treated at LBJ hospital, and discharged.
Authorities think the gun used was a pellet gun, but media reports said that the doctor that treated Neal indicated it might be a 22 caliber wound.
Other Aldine students were near the bus stop when the incident occured, but were not hurt or involved.
Later in the day, Aldine ISD sent a letter home to all parents, explaining the incident. The letter was signed by Cecil Hutson, Principal at Aldine HS. The letter said that the Harris County Sheriff’s office was investigating, and thought it was a random act. However, the shooter is at large at this time.
Neal is a starter on the school’s basketball team. In an interview with channel 13 KTRK, his aunt expressed concern that the injury might affect his ability to play, and to get a scholarship. However, the wound appeared minor, and Neal said he planned to return to the game soon.
Anyone with information on this incident is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS. There is a reward, and you will remain anonymous.