MATAGORDA COUNTY — Two teenagers were seriously injured in a shooting at an underage Halloween party in the Tidehaven area early Sunday, November 1, 2026. Authorities identified Allen I. Dunlap, 17, of Bay City as the suspect wanted on two felony arrest warrants.
According to a November 2 statement from the Matagorda County Sheriff’s Office, a group of teenagers from Bay City arrived at the party, where a fight broke out inside a barn on the property.
As large groups of teenagers began leaving, investigators allege that Dunlap pulled out a firearm and fired multiple shots into the crowd.
A 16-year-old and a 19-year-old were struck by gunfire. Friends moved the injured teenagers to safety and immediately transported them to Matagorda Regional Hospital.
Both victims suffered serious injuries but are expected to recover. The Sheriff’s Office credited their friends’ quick actions with helping the victims.
Two Arrest Warrants Issued
The Sheriff’s Office said it has two active warrants for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon for Dunlap’s arrest. Investigators said they were searching for him and hoped he would turn himself in.
The Texas Rangers and Matagorda County District Attorney’s Office are assisting the Sheriff’s Office with the investigation.
“We are devoting all available resources to determine exactly what happened and bring all those responsible to justice,” Sheriff Rick DeLeon said in the statement.
Tidehaven ISD Responds to Shooting
Tidehaven Independent School District issued a statement following the weekend shooting, saying the violence affected its students as well as students from other districts.
In a message to families, Superintendent Dr. Patrick Talbert acknowledged the emotional impact such incidents can have on students, including those not directly involved. The district said counseling and support services will be available for students who need assistance, and encouraged parents to contact their child’s school if additional support is needed.
Talbert asked the community to respect the privacy of those affected and allow law enforcement to complete its investigation. The district did not identify the students involved or specify which schools they attend.
Source: Tidehaven ISD statement from Superintendent Dr. Patrick Talbert.
How to Provide Information
Anyone who witnessed the shooting or has information about Dunlap’s whereabouts is asked to contact Sgt. Robert Pierce or Sgt. Keith Majors at the Matagorda County Sheriff’s Office at 979-245-5526.
The allegations have not been proven in court, and Dunlap is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Source: Matagorda County Sheriff’s Office, public statement dated November 2, 2026. The warrant status described is as reported in that statement.
Leave a Reply