Community demands action after 11-year-old stabbed to death
HOUSTON (KTRK) -- People filled a community meeting Thursday night demanding change after the murder of Josue Flores, the young boy who was stabbed to death on his way home from school.
Near Northside, residents packed the Leonel Castillo Community Center to voice their fears and concerns in the wake of Flores' death.
Many people focused on the homeless population in their area.
Che Calhoun, 31, is charged with the boy's murder. He's described as homeless.
"The homeless population is growing, and yes, we need more police patrol," said one resident to the crowd.
"I don't know what's being done, but I know it's a problem," said another.
"You take the Salvation Army out of the northside, you solve the problem," another man added.
The Salvation Army is located near where the stabbing happened.
Sybil Moncivais Sanchez, with the Salvation Army of Greater Houston Area Command, said they've heard the public's concerns and are working with the community to make changes.
Elected officials, high ranking police officers and community leaders were also in attendance.
Police: 11-year-old boy fatally stabbed in Houston
"I understand anger, and if I was in your shoes, I'd be angry too," Mayor Sylvester Turner told the room.
Juan Flores, Josue's older brother, expressed his hopes as he gripped a certificate intended for his little brother.
"I want there to be change so that any kid can walk any time of the day and not have to fear for their lives...so that they can go to the store and come home safe."
