Houston Police Department

July 25, 2005 -- Houston police are investigating an incident in which a Texas Department of Public Safety trooper fired a shot at an auto theft suspect in the 1900 block of Benson about 12:45 a.m. today (July 25).

HPD Homicide Division Sergeant C. Mosqueda and Officer L. Benavidez reported:

DPS Trooper Able Martinez was pursuing a stolen vehicle that stopped in the 1900 block of Benson. The trooper approached the vehicle with his weapon drawn and ordered the three males out of the vehicle. The driver of the vehicle refused to comply with the trooper's commands and put the vehicle in motion driving forward. The trooper, who was pinned between the front passenger door and the vehicle, discharged his weapon one time. The stolen vehicle continued several blocks until the driver lost control of the vehicle and drove into an empty lot. DPS Trooper Martinez chased and caught up to the vehicle where all three black male suspects jumped out and fled on foot. One of the suspects, 15, was later arrested by Houston police officers in the 3700 block of Lyons.

Anyone with information in this case is urged to contact the HPD Homicide Division at (713) 308-3600 or Crime Stoppers at (713) 222-TIPS.

MES/JFC
7-25-05
Inc#113560505

For additional information, please contact the HPD Public Affairs Division at 713-308-3200.