🌱 Loro Heights Asian Smokehouse + Alleged MS-13 Accomplice Wanted

Get on up, Houston! Here's everything you need to know to get this Thursday started off right.

First, today's weather:

Mostly sunny. High: 69 Low: 44.

Attention, top law firms! We're now offering sponsorship opportunities for local firms interested in building lasting connections with clients in Houston. Click here to learn more.

Here are the top five stories today in Houston:

1. A 9-year-old was shot in the head during a road rage incident on Tuesday night on Southwest Freeway, according to the Houston Police Department. The girl was taken to a hospital, where she underwent surgery and is in critical condition. (Houston Patch)

2. Houston residents in the Chasewood subdivision near Missouri City are on edge after several homes were struck by stray bullets during a drive-by shooting on February 4th. Neighbors say the shooters had no regard for others. (ABC 13)

3. A woman is on the run after being charged with murder for luring a man to his death at the hands of machete-wielding MS-13 gang members. Authorities are now asking for the public's help to find Karla Jackelin Morales. (Fox 26 Houston)

4. Pitmaster Aaron Franklin and chef Tyson Cole are opening Loro Heights, their third and latest Asian smokehouse. It will be located at at the former 11th St. Church of God at 1001 W 11th St. (Eater Houston)

5. Jose Robert Lozano Jr., former president of the Houston METRO Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 98, is being accused by union leadership of violating his oath of office by going on a spending spree that wiped the union bank account dry. District Attorney Kim Ogg declined to comment on the status of the criminal investigation. (KHOU 11)

From our sponsor:

Hey Houston, are you looking to buy a house, refinance or just explore your options? Check out the new Patch Mortgage Center for all your home financing needs!

Today in Houston:

• Learn @ Lunch: A Tribute To Helen Corbitt at Central Market Houston. (12:00 PM)
• HAIS Theater Collective at Houston Academy for International Studies. (3:30 PM)
• Galentine's Day at Lemon Laine. (5:00 PM)
• Houston Rockets Vs. Toronto Raptors at Houston Parks and Recreation Department. (7:00 PM)
• DaBaby In Concert at City of Houston. (8:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Lovie Smith was introduced as head coach of the Texans on Tuesday. (Facebook)
• Wondering where to enjoy pupusas in Houston? Houstonia has a great list up with 5 recommendations. (Houstonia)
• Houston SPCA's blog, Tracks & Tails, is live with the latest stories about their animals, the work their staff is doing, and helpful pet tips for new owners. (Facebook)
• Valentine' s Day is right around the corner and the Houston Museum of Natural Science's store has you covered with jewelry, butterfly art, home décor, and more. (Facebook)

More from our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news!

Events:

• ACCH Maker Market - Gifts, Art and Food (February 12)
• Taxes in Retirement Seminar (February 14)
• Taxes in Retirement Webinar (February 15)
• Add your event

Loving the Houston Daily? Here are all the ways you can get more involved:

• Send a friend or neighbor this link so they can subscribe
• Get your local business showcased in front of readers
• Send me a news tip or suggestion at houston@patch.com

You're officially in the loop for today! See you all tomorrow morning for another update.

— Carlos Hernandez

About me: Hello my name is Carlos Hernandez and I am a food writer with over 10 years of experience in the industry. I write the food blog Carlos Eats (http://www.carloseats.com) and also contribute to several newspapers and magazines with food-related blogs and articles.