6-Year-Old Texas Boy Shot in the Head While Eating Happy Meal Pleads with God to Save Him as Devastated Mother Races to Get Help—Suspects Remain at Large Amid Community Outrage

Houston, Texas – A mother’s worst nightmare became a tragic reality when 6-year-old Jaxon Martinez was shot in the head while sitting in his mother’s car, happily eating a McDonald’s Happy Meal. In a heartbreaking moment that has shaken the community, the little boy, bleeding and in pain, begged God not to let him die.

A Routine Stop Turns into a Nightmare

On the evening of April 2, 2025, Jaxon and his mother, Maria Martinez, stopped at a McDonald’s drive-thru in Houston’s Fifth Ward to grab dinner. As they pulled into a parking spot so Jaxon could enjoy his meal, gunfire erupted nearby, sending bullets flying through the air.

Before Maria could react, one of the bullets pierced the car window and struck Jaxon in the head, causing chaos and panic.

“I heard the gunshots, and then I heard my baby scream,” Maria recalled through tears. “He was holding his Happy Meal, and suddenly there was blood. He looked at me and said, ‘Mommy, don’t let me die.’”

Desperate Race to Save Jaxon

Realizing the severity of the situation, Maria rushed her son to the hospital, driving through red lights and honking desperately to get help as quickly as possible.

Doctors at Texas Children’s Hospital immediately performed emergency surgery to remove the bullet and stop the bleeding. Jaxon was placed in critical condition in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) as his family prayed for a miracle.

A Community in Shock

The shooting, believed to be the result of a gang-related dispute, has left the community in shock and outrage. Authorities say Jaxon was not the intended target, but an innocent victim of reckless violence.

“This is unacceptable,” said Houston Police Chief Troy Finner. “A child was nearly killed because of senseless gun violence. We are doing everything we can to find the people responsible and bring them to justice.”

Houston authorities have released surveillance footage showing two suspects firing toward a vehicle in the parking lot. A $10,000 reward has been offered for any information leading to their arrest.

Jaxon’s Condition: A Fighter’s Spirit

Miraculously, Jaxon survived the surgery, though his condition remains serious. Doctors say the next 72 hours are critical, as swelling in his brain is being closely monitored.

Despite his injuries, Jaxon has shown incredible strength, even whispering to his mother after surgery:

“Mommy, I prayed to God. I told Him I want to stay with you.”

His mother, overwhelmed with emotion, has vowed to fight for justice and raise awareness about the growing problem of gun violence affecting innocent children.

Call for Justice & Community Response

Community leaders and activists have spoken out, demanding stricter gun laws and harsher penalties for reckless shooters. Houston residents gathered for a candlelight vigil outside the McDonald’s, where Jaxon was shot, placing balloons, teddy bears, and notes of support.

“This has to stop,” said local activist Sharon Davis. “We cannot keep burying our children or praying they survive gunshot wounds. We need change.”

Jaxon’s family has set up a GoFundMe page to help with medical expenses and recovery costs, as his road to healing will be long. Doctors have warned that he may suffer long-term effects, including speech and motor difficulties, requiring extensive rehabilitation.

Seeking Justice

Houston police urge anyone with information about the shooters to come forward. The suspects remain at large, and authorities are determined to hold them accountable.

Maria Martinez, still reeling from the trauma, just wants justice for her son.

“My baby was just eating his Happy Meal. He was excited about his toy. Now, he’s fighting for his life. If you know anything, please, help us find the people who did this.”

How You Can Help

• Anyone with information is encouraged to call Houston Crime Stoppers at (713) 222-TIPS.
• Donations for Jaxon’s medical expenses can be made at [GoFundMe link].
• A prayer service will be held at St. Mary’s Church on Friday at 7 p.m. to support Jaxon’s recovery.

As Jaxon continues to fight, his family, friends, and an entire community are praying for a miracle—one that will let a little boy go back to just being a kid.