Editor’s Note: This is a developing story, which will be updated as new information becomes available.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to follow and signup for notifications!
By Joanna PutmanPolice1
HOUSTON — A manhunt is underway after a Harris County deputy was killed in an ambush, KHOU reported.
The 28-year-old deputy, a five-year veteran of the sheriff’s office, was a member of a task force that tracks down child rapists, homicide suspects and other violent offenders, according to the report. His identity has not been released.
The July 10 incident unfolded when deputies received a call about an aggravated assault at a restaurant, according to the report. A customer, who was upset over an incorrect order, had attacked and pistol-whipped an employee before fleeing.
Deputies issued a call to locate the suspect vehicle. A detective used the Flock camera system, which showed a history of hits for the vehicle in a specific location, according to the report. Deputies went to that location but did not initially find the car.
One deputy later returned to the location. He reported finding the suspect’s vehicle but not the attacker, according to the report. It was at this point that the deputy was ambushed.
Other detectives arrived and found that the deputy had been shot multiple times, according to the report. He was rushed to the hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
Deputies currently have two locations under surveillance with SWAT teams. Sheriff Ed Gonzalez stated they have a strong lead on the gunman’s identity, according to the report.
“Our thoughts are with his family as they come to terms with this horrible news,” Gonzalez posted. “An active investigation is underway to identify and apprehend his killer. We will not rest until we do!”
