Irving Nimitz grad killed in College Station shooting

A College Station man has been charged in the shooting death of a Blinn College student from Irving at a graduation party.

Ronald Wayne McNeil was being held Thursday on charges of murder, two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and deadly conduct in the discharge of a firearm. Two other men, ages 23 and 29, were also hurt in the shooting.

College Station police say gunfire early Sunday killed 19-year-old Lacie LaRose, who recently moved from Irving. LaRose graduated from Irving's Nimitz High School.

McNeil allegedly argued with partygoers, was asked to leave and returned with a gun.

Court records indicate McNeil, who has a 2000 drug conviction, says the gun accidentally fired. Felons are not allowed to have firearms.

The two wounded victims were treated and released.

LaRose's family said the teen had dreams of being a veterinarian and they chose a school in College Station instead of out of state because they thought it would be safer.

"We are just shattered," said April LaRose. "God only gave me one child and she was taken all her dreams of becoming a vet and saving animals, just gone."

A funeral for LaRose is scheduled for Saturday in Irving.

Online jail records don't list an attorney for the 39-year-old McNeil. Bond was set at $500,000.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.