In a chilling incident that has shaken the quiet community of Friendswood, Texas, a 17-year-old, Connor Hilton, stands accused of fatally shooting one friend and critically injuring another at his suburban residence just days before Christmas.
According to court documents reported by Law and Crime on Thursday, Hilton admitted to having a longstanding desire to commit homicide as he confessed to police after the incident that unfolded on December 23, 2023. His victims were identified as Ethan Riley, 18, who tragically succumbed to his injuries, and Benjamin Bliek, 19, who remains in critical condition.
Hilton, now facing murder charges, disclosed to law enforcement that he had no apparent quarrel with his friends and had persuaded his mother to purchase the revolver used in the heinous act.
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Police responded to a 911 call from a witness inside Hilton’s residence who heard two gunshots. Upon arrival, they found Riley and Bliek with gunshot wounds to their heads, a teal and gray revolver nearby, and Hilton visibly distraught outside the house.
The probable cause affidavit obtained by Law&Crime detailed Hilton’s confession during an interview at the police station. Hilton acknowledged his premeditated intent, stating that he had contemplated and desired to commit a homicide for an extended period.
Describing the sequence of events, Hilton recounted shooting Riley in the left side of the head before turning to Bliek, shooting him in the left side of the head as well. Hilton claimed to fully comprehend the gravity of his actions and expressed accountability.
Initially arrested on December 24 on charges of aggravated assault with bodily injury, Hilton posted a $1 million bond. However, he was rearrested on December 25 after District Attorney Jack Roady upgraded the charges to murder following Riley’s tragic death.
New bond conditions now include GPS monitoring for Hilton, as indicated by court records obtained by Law&Crime.
The motive behind Hilton’s violent act remains unclear, with police reporting no disturbance or disagreement between him and his friends. The Friendswood community, where Hilton attended high school and participated in sports and theater, is grappling with the shock of the incident.
Friends and family of Riley and Bliek have expressed their grief and disbelief on social media, remembering the victims as kind, funny, and caring young men. A GoFundMe page has been established to assist with Bliek’s medical expenses and recovery.
