UPDATE: A Houston police officer is hospitalized after being stabbed during an encounter at a CVS Pharmacy on Milam and Congress Street on Sunday night. The suspect, a 27-year-old man, was shot and killed by the officer’s partner after he initiated the attack.
At approximately 8:30 PM local time, the suspect flagged down officers seeking assistance. As Officer Joaquin Garza approached to help, he was brutally stabbed above his left ear. His partner quickly responded, fatally shooting the assailant to prevent further harm. Authorities believe the suspect was experiencing a mental episode at the time, with a reported lengthy criminal history.
Houston Mayor John Whitmire addressed the incident, stating, “All the officers involved in the encounter are shaken up. They do not plan on using their firearms when they leave the house each day, but they know their lives are at risk when they’re out on the street.” Officer Garza, who has been with the Houston Police Department for two years, is expected to recover from his injuries.
The Houston Police Department is currently reviewing body camera footage of the incident and plans to release the video to the public soon. This critical review aims to provide transparency and insight into the events that transpired during this alarming encounter.
As details continue to emerge, the community remains on edge, closely monitoring the developments surrounding this shocking incident. Authorities urge residents to stay informed as they investigate the circumstances leading to the officer’s stabbing and the suspect’s actions.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
