Texans veteran safety Justin Reid was moved emotionally to help the family of Anthony Hipp, a drive-by shooting victim.
The NFL player is teaming up with Dick's Sporting Goods to take the Hipp family shopping in Katy.
“When I heard this story, I was saddened, and immediately asked, ‘What can I do?' said Reid, a Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year nominee who's an ambassador for Candle Lighters and Kids Meals Houston, in in a statement. "There has been an increase in violence and road rage since the pandemic, and I wish we could all just pause and take a deep breath. I’m just happy I can use my platform to partner with Dick's Sporting Goods to bring a little light to this family,”
Gabriela Granero, the fiancé of Anthony Hipp, stated she was riding with Hipp on Christmas Eve and recalls they were trying to make a right turn at Westgreen and I-10 in Katy when they believe something hit their car. When Hipp got out to check, Granero heard gunshots.
Gunfire struck Hipp in his arms, stomach and the back of his leg, according to Granero. His pregnant fiancé says, despite being shot nine times, he was still able to drive them away from danger and to a nearby hospital where he could get treatment. Doctors are uncertain if Hipp will pull through. Granero said he part of his bowels were removed, went into kidney failure and is on dialysis fighting a major infection.
Granero is hoping anyone who witnessed the incident at the busy intersection will speak up, so the person responsible can be brought to justice. Anyone with information can call Crime Stoppers at 713-222-8477.