Houston police are investigating the fatal shooting of a male suspect by a San Jacinto County Sheriff’s Office deputy at 22999 Eastex Freeway (North U.S. Highway 59) service road about 8:55 p.m. on Monday (Feb. 24).
The identity of the male, 34, is pending verification by the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences.
The deputy who discharged his weapon was not injured.
HPD Special Investigations Unit Detectives V. Lewis and M. Estep reported:
Deputies from the San Jacinto County Sheriff’s Office arrested the male suspect on numerous felony charges. During the arrest, the suspect sustained injuries and was transported to HCA Houston Healthcare Kingwood at the above address for further medical treatment, before being booked into the San Jacinto County Jail Facility.
While at the hospital, deputies maintained custody and control of the suspect at all times, ensuring that a San Jacinto County deputy remained with the suspect throughout his stay.
About 8:50 p.m., the suspect was returned to his hospital room after undergoing a medical procedure. Once inside the room, the suspect requested that the deputy loosen his leg restraints. At the time, the suspect was handcuffed with his hands positioned in front of him.
As the deputy loosened the leg restraints, the suspect suddenly grabbed the deputy by the collar of his outer vest, initiating a violent struggle. The deputy attempted to break free and create distance, but the suspect got up and continued his assault. In response, the deputy struck the suspect multiple times with his baton while issuing verbal commands for the suspect to stop. The suspect, disregarding the deputy’s commands, continued advancing and again grabbed the deputy by the collar of his outer vest.
As the struggle continued, the suspect and the deputy fell to the ground, with the suspect landing on top of the deputy. The suspect then attempted to gain control of the deputy’s firearm and successfully grabbed the firearm. A struggle ensued over the weapon, during which the deputy was able to regain control of his firearm and discharge several rounds, striking the suspect.
The deputy immediately notified dispatch and hospital medical staff, who arrived promptly and began life-saving measures. Despite their efforts, the suspect was pronounced deceased at the scene.
As is customary when any law enforcement agency officer discharges a weapon in the city limits, the incident is being investigated by the HPD Special Investigations Unit.
JFC/SOA 2-25-25
Inc #024812425