Police ID Teen Suspect, Victim In North Austin Marijuana Transaction Turned Deadly

NORTH AUSTIN, TX — Police on Wednesday identified both the suspect and victim in a marijuana deal gone bad that left the seller of the product dead from a gunshot to the chest in late December.

Police were dispatched to the 12900 block of Quinn Trail on Dec. 29 at roughly 1:30 a.m. Upon entering the home, they found an individual performing CPR on a male victim with obvious trauma to his body. Arriving officers took over the life-saving measures before the victim was rushed to St. David' Medical Center in Round Rock, where he was pronounced dead.

The victim was identified as Anthony E. Brown. 26. Accused in the homicide is Mosses Howell, 19.

Following an investigation, police learned that Brown had agreed to meet two males at the house on Quinn Trail to sell them marijuana. After Brown stepped out onto the porch to speak with the customers, he was shot in chest during the transaction. Police discovered that Brown had a brief telephone conversation with Howell just before he was killed. Initially unable to locate Howell, police learned from his ex-girlfriend that he had to leave Austin after having shot someone in an attempted robbery at the home.

By Jan. 3, police had enough evidence to charge Howell with murder, a first degree felony and his bond was set at $150,000, according to police.

Police said an investigation continued in the case, and more arrests are expected. Anyone with information is urged to call them at (512) 477-3588 or Crime Stoppers at 512-472-TIPS or by texting "Tip 103" + your message to CRIMES. Those with information also can submit tips by downloading APD’s mobile app, Austin PD, for free on iPhone and Android.

>>> Howell booking photo courtesy of Austin Police Department