HOUSTON, TX – A robbery suspect is hospitalized after being shot during what police are calling a “gun jugging” attempt in southwest Houston on Tuesday afternoon.

According to KHOU 11 News, the incident occurred near Rampart Street and the Westpark Tollway around 4 p.m. Investigators with the Houston Police Department said the victim had just left a local gun range when he was followed by suspects in another vehicle.

Police say the suspects trailed the victim for less than a mile before attempting to rob him. During the confrontation, the suspects reportedly grabbed a bag containing firearms. However, the victim was armed and fired at the suspects during the attempted robbery, striking one of the men in the lower face.

The wounded suspect was transported to a hospital under police guard and is expected to survive. Two other suspects fled the scene on foot, leaving their vehicle behind. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses as they work to identify and locate the remaining individuals involved.

What Is “Gun Jugging”?

While the term “jugging” has been used to describe criminals who follow victims from banks or high-value retail locations to rob them, “gun jugging” refers specifically to targeting individuals leaving gun stores or gun ranges. Criminals assume the victim may be carrying newly purchased firearms or other high-value equipment.

Houston police indicated that this type of crime does occur from time to time, particularly when suspects identify what they believe to be a high-value target. In this case, the suspects allegedly followed the victim directly from the gun range before attempting the robbery.

An HPD spokesperson urged the public to remain alert when leaving businesses where valuable items may make them a target. Police recommend taking note of vehicles that appear to be following you, making additional turns to confirm suspicions, and calling 911 or proceeding to the nearest police station if you believe you are being followed.

The investigation remains ongoing.

This incident serves as a reminder that situational awareness does not end when you leave the range. Criminals who engage in gun jugging are deliberately targeting individuals they believe are carrying firearms or expensive gear. Maintaining awareness of your surroundings, watching for vehicles that follow you from parking lots, and having a plan to contact authorities if something feels wrong can make a critical difference. In this case, the intended victim was prepared and able to respond to an immediate threat of serious bodily harm. Staying alert before, during, and after range visits is an essential part of responsible gun ownership.