Introduction to the Threats Faced by Memorial High School
Memorial High School has faced several serious threats and acts of violence over the past year, prompting renewed concerns about campus safety. These incidents have raised questions about the measures in place to protect students and staff.
Incident 1: Off-Duty HPD Officer Stops Gunman
On February 1, 2025, an elderly man opened fire inside the auditorium at Pasadena Memorial High School during a Texas Color Guard Circuit percussion competition. The gunman, identified as 83-year-old Dennis Erqin Brandl Jr., walked into the event and fired a small-caliber handgun, striking a man in the shoulder. The victim was airlifted to a hospital and is expected to survive. An off-duty Houston Police Department officer attending the event quickly tackled the shooter, and several attendees helped restrain him until security and Pasadena ISD police arrived.
Details of the Incident
Brandl claimed he believed he was being chased and feared for his safety, though investigators found no evidence to support this statement. He had no connection to the competition or the school. The Harris County District Attorney’s Office charged him with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, and he was taken into custody without bond. Brandl later died of natural causes while in custody.
Incident 2: Shooting Near Pasadena Memorial High School
On February 28, 2025, a shooting near Pasadena Memorial High School injured two students after a planned fight escalated into gunfire. Police arrested 19-year-old Damian Alexander Saiz, who is charged with two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. The shooting happened across the street from the campus shortly after dismissal, and Pasadena police arrived within minutes to find two students hurt.
Investigation and Arrest
One student had been shot in the chest and was airlifted to the hospital with a collapsed lung and a broken rib. The second victim was treated for a gunshot wound to the arm. Investigators used Flock cameras and witness video to track down the maroon Chevrolet Silverado involved in the getaway. Saiz was identified and taken into custody after he allegedly threatened the driver with a gun when he refused to help him escape.
Incident 3: Planned Mass Shooting at Pasadena Memorial High School
In November 2025, two Pasadena Memorial High School students were arrested after investigators uncovered a plan to carry out a mass shooting at the campus. Emilio Lopez, 18, is charged with conspiracy to commit capital murder, and a juvenile suspect is also facing charges.
Details of the Planned Attack
According to court documents, a student told her parent about a violent text exchange between Lopez and the juvenile suspect, which described plans to use shotguns, ammunition, and other weapons in a coordinated attack. Lopez allegedly wrote that he was “tempted” and had “2 shotguns and plenty of ammo.” The juvenile responded that the attack needed to be “planned strategically” and referenced an AK-12.
Conclusion
The incidents at Memorial High School highlight the need for increased vigilance and measures to ensure campus safety. The school district and law enforcement agencies must work together to prevent such incidents and provide a safe environment for students and staff. The community must also be involved in reporting any suspicious activity and supporting the efforts to keep the school safe. By working together, we can prevent future incidents and ensure that our schools remain a safe and secure place for everyone.
