| Houston police are investigating an incident in which two HPD officers exchanged gunfire with an armed suspect at 5219 Airline Drive about 12:15 a.m. today (February 27).
The male suspect suffered gunshot wounds to his left arm and was transported to Ben Taub General Hospital in stable condition.
HPD Officers C. Eskridge and R. Martin, who discharged their duty weapons, were not injured in the incident. Officers Eskridge and Martin were sworn in as officers in January 2016 and December 2014, respectively, and are assigned to the North Patrol Division.
HPD Special Investigations Unit Sergeant M. Ynosencio and Detectives E. Contreras, D. Hobson and M. Glover reported:
HPD patrol officers responded to a burglary of a business call at the Cash America Pawn Shop at the above address and found a large hole cut in the back of the business. Officers then saw a light shining and movement inside the business, indicating someone was inside. As officers attempted to set up a perimeter, Officer Martin noticed the suspect's hand emerge from the hole in the building. He gave the suspect verbal command to show his hands but instead, the suspect stuck a gun through the hole, pointed it toward Officer Martin and fired several shots. Fearing for his life, Officer Martin discharged his duty weapon. The suspect and Officer Martin continued to exchange gunfire and the suspect then exited the building and attempted to flee on foot southbound.
Officer Eskridge rushed to assist Officer Martin and located the suspect running westbound on East Rodgers Street. He gave the suspect verbal commands to show his hands but instead, the suspect fired his weapon at the officer. Fearing for his life, Officer Eskridge returned fire. The suspect continued to flee and attempted to hide under a nearby vehicle but was quickly located and taken into custody. Officers recovered a gun in his possession. The suspect was transported by HFD paramedics to the hospital. No charges have been filed at this time, as the investigation is continuing.
As is customary in HPD officer-involved shooting incidents in the Houston city limits, this case is being investigated by the HPD Special Investigations Unit, the Internal Affairs Division and the Harris County District Attorney's Office.
VHS/JKS 2-27-19
Inc. #025266619 |
