Third Victim Emerges in Matagorda County Party Shooting

Allen Dunlap, 17, was arrested at a home in El Campo at about 8:19 p.m. on November 2 and is being held at the Matagorda County Jail. He faces three charges alleging aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, and his bond is set at $300,000. A third charge was added after another person who had been shot came forward.

The shooting took place early Sunday, November 1, at a Halloween party in the Tidehaven area, between Bay City and Palacios. Teenagers from Bay City came to the gathering, where a fight erupted inside a barn.

As groups of teenagers left the property, Dunlap allegedly pulled out a firearm and shot toward those gathered. A 16-year-old and a 19-year-old were among those shot; the third victim is also 16. Friends moved the injured people to safety and took them to Matagorda Regional Hospital. All three were seriously hurt and are expected to recover.

The sheriff’s office continues its investigation despite the arrest, with multiple agencies involved. Investigators are seeking information from people who attended the party, as well as any photos or videos. They will continue collecting evidence and working to hold everyone responsible accountable.