Men In Ski Masks Impersonate Officers, Shot Dead By Armed Homeowner

A Houston homeowner shot and killed two men wearing ski masks who posed as police officers during a late-night attempted home intrusion. Authorities say the men fired first, prompting the homeowner to return fire in self-defense.

LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE

HOUSTON, TX (3-minute read) — Authorities in Houston are investigating a deadly shooting after two masked men impersonating police officers were shot and killed by a homeowner late Friday night.

The incident occurred around 11 p.m. on Bellnole Drive, near Galveston Road, according to the Houston Police Department (HPD). Investigators say the homeowner reported that the men knocked on the door claiming to be police there to serve a warrant. Suspicious of their appearance of ski masks, no marked patrol car, and no flashing lights, the homeowner hesitated.

HPD Lt. Khan explained that the situation escalated quickly when the suspects began shooting through the door. The homeowner, armed and prepared to defend himself, returned fire. Neighbors later told KHOU 11 they heard at least 22 shots exchanged. Both intruders were struck and pronounced dead at the scene, while the homeowner emerged unharmed.

Police confirmed that the two men, believed to be in their 20s, wore bulletproof vests and carried badges around their necks, though it remains unclear whether the badges were authentic. Investigators spent nearly 12 hours gathering evidence before clearing the scene.

HPD detectives urged residents to remain cautious when someone claims to be law enforcement at their door. Genuine officers, they explained, typically arrive in marked units, often with lights and sirens. Officers also do not wear ski masks during standard warrant service.

Houston Self-Defense and Home Safety

This case highlights the importance of both situational awareness and lawful firearm ownership. A homeowner confronted with armed intruders, especially those pretending to be police, faces a split-second decision. Proper training and knowledge of Texas self-defense laws can make the difference between survival and tragedy.

Safety Tip: If someone claims to be law enforcement at your door, do not open immediately. Ask for identification through a window or security camera, and call 911 to verify their presence before making contact.