Waco recorded its first homicide of 2025 on Wednesday evening following the fatal shooting of a 34-year-old man. Police were called to the intersection of Ozark and Howard Streets at approximately 7:15 p.m., where they discovered the victim with critical injuries. Emergency responders transported him to a nearby hospital, but he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
The victim has been identified as Keith Cobb, a 34-year-old Waco resident. Authorities have not released additional details about Cobb’s background or the circumstances leading up to the shooting.
As of now, no suspects have been apprehended, and police are continuing their investigation. While detectives are still piecing together the events of the incident, they believe it was isolated and does not pose a broader threat to the public.
The Waco Police Department is urging anyone with information related to the case to come forward. Community members can contact Crime Stoppers at 254-753-HELP (4357) or submit tips anonymously online or through the P3 Tips mobile app. Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to $2,000 for information leading to an arrest.
This marks Waco’s first homicide investigation of the year and the first in seven months, highlighting the relatively low number of homicide cases in the city recently. The previous investigation took place in mid-2024, signaling a period of stability that residents and authorities hoped would continue into the new year.
The shooting has left the community shocked and saddened. In a city that has seen progress in reducing violent crime, the news of Cobb’s death serves as a stark reminder of the challenges that remain. Local residents have expressed concerns about safety and are hopeful that the police will quickly resolve the case.
Authorities are emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in solving the crime. “Information from the public is often crucial in investigations like this,” a Waco police representative stated. “Even the smallest details can make a significant difference in identifying suspects and understanding what happened.”
Waco has taken various steps to address violent crime in recent years, including increased police presence in high-risk areas and partnerships with community organizations. The city’s Crime Stoppers program has also proven to be an effective tool for gathering anonymous tips, leading to arrests and resolutions in numerous cases.
Despite these efforts, incidents like Wednesday’s shooting highlight the need for ongoing vigilance and community engagement. The tragic loss of life affects not only the victim’s family and friends but also the broader community, which is left grappling with grief and uncertainty.
Community leaders are calling for solidarity and a renewed commitment to fostering a safe and supportive environment. In the wake of Cobb’s death, there have been discussions about organizing events to promote peace and unity, as well as initiatives to strengthen neighborhood watch programs.
As the investigation continues, authorities are hopeful that leads will emerge, allowing them to bring justice to Keith Cobb and his loved ones. The Waco Police Department remains dedicated to keeping the public informed as new information becomes available and encourages residents to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
The tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of community-police collaboration in maintaining public safety. While Waco has made strides in reducing violent crime, the city must remain proactive in addressing the underlying issues that contribute to such incidents.
Keith Cobb’s death is a somber way to begin the year for Waco. As the investigation unfolds, the community’s support for his family and the determination to seek justice will be essential in moving forward. Authorities are urging residents to come together and help ensure that Waco remains a place where people can feel safe and secure.
In the meantime, the police department’s message is clear: public involvement is critical. By working together, the community can play a vital role in solving this case and preventing future tragedies. As Waco begins its first homicide investigation of 2025, the hope remains that justice will be served and that such incidents will become increasingly rare in the city