Neighbors had complained for months about the former Wells Fargo site.
HOUSTON, Texas — Demolition crews began tearing down an abandoned southwest Houston bank building this week, nearly five months after police said 25-year-old JaDarious “Jade” Roberts was found shot and killed at the vacant property.
The former Wells Fargo building near Hillcroft and Hillmeadow had drawn repeated complaints from neighbors before Roberts was found on Jan. 2. City records cited by local reports showed 27 complaints since the bank moved out in September 2023, including reports tied to standing water, graffiti and squatting.
Houston police said Roberts was found dead inside the vacant building. His family said he was days away from turning 26. Sharon Johnson, his aunt, said the loss was “shattering” and “life-altering” as relatives asked for answers in the case.
Investigators said Roberts had been shot. Police also said there was a strong possibility he was killed somewhere else and brought to the property. No arrest had been announced in the homicide, and officials have not released a full account of how Roberts came to be at the building.
The property had become a concern for people who live and work nearby. Complaints dated back to early 2024, after the bank branch closed the previous fall. Houston Public Works later cited the property for stagnant water and graffiti, according to local records.
Property owners previously told KHOU that demolition was planned. Houston Public Works said an application to demolish the building and disconnect sewer lines was received March 19. By late May, crews had started the work, removing a site that neighbors had described as unsafe.
The homicide investigation remains open. The next major step is any update from Houston police on evidence, a suspect or charges tied to Roberts’ death.
Author note: Last updated May 29, 2026.