Alleged shooter who posted videos on social media faces federal charges

HOUSTON - A 36-year-old Michigan man known as Allstar JR, who allegedly opened fire at a Houston restaurant, is now in custody for unlawfully possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, announced Acting U.S. Attorney John G.E. Marck.

Jeremy Christopher Ford made his initial appearance in Detroit, Michigan. He remains in custody pending a detention hearing set for April 27.

Ford allegedly possessed a handgun during a shooting April 8 at a restaurant on Kirby Drive in Houston. According to the criminal complaint, authorities responded to reports of a shooting in progress and discovered two gunshot victims at the scene. Court documents allege gunfire also struck a third person.

The charges allege Ford was involved in a confrontation with several individuals inside the restaurant, during which a handgun fell to the floor. Ford picked it up and began firing as people fled, according to the allegations. He allegedly continued shooting as individuals ran towards an elevator but returned to where one victim lay motionless on the ground and fired additional rounds into that individual.

Law enforcement located a handgun Ford allegedly hid at the scene before fleeing, according to the charges.

The complaint also alleges Ford later posted multiple videos on social media referencing and taunting individuals involved in the altercation and released a music video that referred to the shooting.

Court documents further allege Ford has a prior felony conviction. As such, federal law prohibits him from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

If convicted of these charges, Ford faces up to 15 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

The FBI conducted the investigation with assistance of Houston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Keri L. Fuller is prosecuting the case.

A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.