Thursday night, an off-duty Texas deputy died for trying to do the right thing.
Harris County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Darren Almendarez was shot and killed when he tried to break up an alleged attempted burglary.
He was a 23-year veteran of the force.
Shots Fired
Almendarez and his wife had just left Aldine Westfield grocery store when he spotted what appeared to be a group of men breaking into a vehicle.
When he confronted the suspects, there was a struggle for a gun.
Sheriff Ed Gonzalez stated, “Possibly a catalytic converter that was being stolen.
“We’re not sure. Those details are still being investigated.
“But, he intervened. He intervened to try to stop a crime.”
Update 2 to shooting on 1960: It devastates us to announce our deputy has been pronounced deceased. Please keep his family and our members in your prayers. I will provide an update to media shortly outside HCA Houston NW, corner of Judiiwood & Cali. #HouNews https://t.co/yvSFViGAd1
— Ed Gonzalez (@SheriffEd_HCSO) April 1, 2022
Almendarez did manage to get several shots off of his own, reportedly hitting two of the suspects.
Gonzalez stated, “And, really a hero, because as all of this was unfolding, he had the mindset to make sure he was protecting his wife.
“He told his wife to run, to get away from danger, as he put himself in harm’s way to protect the rest of the community and to try to stop a crime.”
Authorities are still searching for the third suspect and do not currently have an ID on him.
Rest in peace, Deputy Almendarez, and thank you for your service and sacrifice.
Source: Fox News
