Friendswood, Texas – A 17-year-old teenager has been charged with murder after allegedly shooting two friends in the head at his home in the Houston suburb of Friendswood. Connor reportedly told police that he had wanted to commit a homicide for a long time.
The shooting occurred on December 23, resulting in the death of 18-year-old Ethan Riley and leaving a 19-year-old friend, Benjamin Bliek, hospitalized in critical condition. The motive for the senseless killing remains unclear.
According to court records, a witness called 911 after hearing gunshots and fleeing to a bathroom to seek safety. The witness reported hearing Hilton crying and saying, “What have I done?” when he passed by the locked bathroom door. When police arrived at the scene, they found Hilton visibly distraught and he pointed them towards the house, indicating there were two teenagers inside whom he believed to be deceased. Officers discovered Riley and Bliek on the floor, both shot in the head. A revolver, allegedly purchased by Hilton with his mother’s assistance, was found nearby.
During an interview with police, Hilton confessed to shooting his friends. He explained that they had come to his house and were in the main area when he decided to show off his gun. There had been no reported disturbance or disagreement prior to the incident.
Hilton admitted to shooting Riley first and then turning to shoot Bliek, even observing that Bliek had raised his hands in defense. Hilton expressed his understanding of the gravity of his actions and accepted the need to be held accountable.
As the investigation progresses, authorities continue to work to determine the underlying factors that motivated Hilton to commit such a horrific act.