US Navy Veteran Killed in Carjacking

Governor Greg Abbott offered a $10,000 reward to catch the killer of a 90-year-old Navy veteran in Houston, as the community mourns and seeks justice. On September 3, it was reported that a person was taken into custody in connection with the crime and questioned.

At a Glance

90-year-old Navy veteran Nelson Beckett was fatally shot in a carjacking at a Houston retirement village.
Police reportedly detained a person for questioning in connection to the murder.
Governor Abbott announced a $10,000 reward, with Crime Stoppers adding $5,000, totaling $15,000 for information leading to an arrest.
The suspect was considered armed and dangerous.
Authorities urge the public to submit tips anonymously through Texas Crime Stoppers.

A Tragic Loss for the Community

On a Saturday afternoon in Houston, a shocking act of violence shattered the peace of the Lone Star Living retirement village. Nelson Beckett, a 90-year-old Navy veteran, fell victim to a carjacking that ended his life and left a community in mourning. The incident occurred around 12:45 p.m. along Westbrae Parkway near Rainer Drive, an area typically considered safe by its residents.

The suspect allegedly approached Beckett, shot him, and then callously ran over the veteran as he fled the scene. Beckett’s car was later found abandoned at a nearby apartment complex, just 10 minutes away from the crime scene.

Governor Abbott Takes Action

In response to this crime, Texas Governor Greg Abbott stepped forward to offer a substantial reward for information leading to the arrest of the perpetrator. The governor’s office announced a $10,000 reward, which, combined with an additional $5,000 from Crime Stoppers, brings the total reward to $15,000.

“Cecilia and I are deeply saddened to hear of the murder of 90-year-old Navy veteran Nelson Beckett in Houston,” said Governor Abbott. “Our hearts go out to his family and loved ones, and the entire Houston community during this difficult time.” He also called on the public to report any relevant information through the Texas Crime Stoppers hotline or anonymous tips. :Texas will always support the brave men and women who answered the call to serve in our nation’s military,” he said.

Cecilia & I are deeply saddened to hear of the murder of Navy veteran Nelson Beckett in Houston.

Texas is offering a reward of $10,000 for information relating to this terrible crime.

Call the Texas Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-252-8477. We'll bring this criminal to justice. pic.twitter.com/N0AkljqZ53

— Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) September 2, 2024

Person Questioned

On Wednesday, September 3, Click2Houston reported that police had a person in custody who they were questioning in connection with the killing. No charges have been announced at this time, however.

A Community in Mourning

Nelson Beckett’s tragic death has left a void in the hearts of his family and friends. Described as a loving family man, Beckett is survived by two children, five grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. His daughter, Tami Freund, shared touching memories of her father’s devotion to his family and faith.

Tami Freund, Beckett’s daughter, stated he would “do anything for anyone.” According to her, he “loved big and loved his family so much.”

Long-time friend Steve Sandifer expressed his shock and sadness, highlighting Beckett’s exemplary life and strong faith. Tim Beckett, Nelson’s son, remembered his father as outgoing and faith-driven, a man who set a good example until his final day.

Call for Public Assistance

Authorities have been urging anyone with information about this crime to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously through the Texas Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-252-TIPS or online via the Texas Department of Public Safety website. The public is reminded that all tips are anonymous and protected by law, with tipsters receiving a tip number instead of using their name.

Law enforcement officials emphasized that the suspect was considered armed and dangerous. The Texas governor’s website noted that civilians should exercise caution and not try to apprehend any fugitive.