Alleged Five Guys shooter facing federal charges

HOUSTON, TX -- A 25-year-old Houston resident is set to appear in federal court today to answer allegations he robbed a Five Guys restaurant and shot an off-duty law enforcement officer, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

Keith Thomas is expected to appear before U.S. Magistrate Judge Bryan at 10:00 am today. He is charged with interference with commerce by robbery and discharging a firearm during or in relation to that robbery.

The criminal complaint, filed Oct. 25, 2019 alleges Thomas entered the Five Guys restaurant located at 2902 Shepherd Drive in Houston with a firearm Oct. 16. There, Thomas allegedly pointed the firearm at customers and employees and demanded money. The charges allege he was able to steal cash from the cash register and from patrons.

Prior to exiting the restaurant, Thomas allegedly discharged his firearm, striking a constable who was approaching the door. The constable was off official duty with Harris County Precinct 5, but working security at the location. Thomas then fled the location, according to the complaint.

The charges allege officers found a cell phone they believed to belonged to the suspect and traced is back to Thomas. Thomas was arrested and transferred to federal custody.

If convicted, Thomas faces up to 20 years in prison for interference with commerce by robbery and a consecutive mandatory minimum of 10 years up to life in prison for firearm charge.

The Houston Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jill Stotts is prosecuting the case.

A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.