Store clerk shot to death in SW Houston

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- A Texaco convenience store reopened just hours after a worker was killed in the parking lot and police continue the search for suspects.

It happened in the 7000 block of S. Sam Houston Parkway near Hillcroft early Saturday morning.

Police identify the victim as Michael Truong, a man in his fifties. Investigators said he was closing the store and walking to his van when he was ambushed by robbers who tried to take his vehicle. Officers said Truong fought back and was shot.

The robbers took the van but abandoned it just a few miles away where it was recovered by police a short time later.

Willie Rogers, Truong's friend of 20 years, rushed to the store when he heard what happened.

"A person like Mike doesn't deserve to be attacked like this," Rogers said.

Rogers was not surprised family members reopened the store Saturday saying they are committed to hard work and known for helping others.

"They are hard-working people. Michael had a wonderful family," he said.

Rogers said Michael was generous and would have likely helped the men who killed him if only they'd asked.

"If you needed gas, he'd give you gas. If you needed food, he would feed you."

Police are reviewing surveillance video and searching for two suspects. Anyone with information is urged to call Houston police.