Shooting Outside West Side Smoke Shop in Midland Leads to Arrest

By Josiah Carrasco

MIDLAND, TEXAS — A shooting incident outside Mr. Puff’s Smoke Shop on Midland’s west side has left one man with life-threatening injuries and another in police custody. The Midland Police Department (MPD) responded to the scene on the 4300 block of Andrews Highway at approximately 3:35 p.m. on Friday.

According to MPD, the incident began when a man, identified as Deandre Jefferson, was inside the smoke shop looking at items priced around $130. Witnesses say that Jefferson took the merchandise from the counter without paying and attempted to exit the store.

A store employee, 27-year-old Joshua Miller, reportedly followed Jefferson toward the door and, in an attempt to stop him, fired one shot that struck Jefferson in the back. The incident unfolded just outside the shop’s entrance, where Jefferson collapsed after being hit. MPD indicated that there were no reports of Jefferson displaying a weapon or making any threats during the incident.

Upon arrival, police found Miller outside the store, where he had placed his firearm on the ground. He was taken into custody without incident and now faces a potential charge of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Jefferson was quickly transported by Midland Fire personnel to Midland Memorial Hospital for treatment, and his condition remains critical.

Authorities have not released further details on Miller’s motives or if any additional charges may be filed. The investigation remains ongoing as police continue to gather witness statements and review store surveillance footage.

This incident underscores a concerning rise in gun-related altercations in Midland, raising community debates over gun use in defense of property. Based on Texas law, the use of deadly force in response to theft is legally complex and often evaluated based on specific circumstances.