Crime
Terrell police officer Jacob Candanoza killed in the line of duty, suspect in custody
The police chief says Officer Jacob Candanoza was in his 20s and leaves behind a wife and young son.
A Terrell Police officer was tragically killed during a routine traffic stop late Sunday night, and the suspect involved is now in custody, according to the Terrell Police Department.
Officer Jacob Candanoza, 28, conducted a traffic stop in the 1600 block of South State Highway 34 around 11 p.m. on December 8, 2024, near a Super 8 motel.
During the stop, Candanoza requested backup. Shortly thereafter, the department received two 911 calls reporting that an officer had been shot, department spokesperson Mary Hauger shared during a Monday press conference.
Responding officers arrived at the scene and confirmed that Candanoza had sustained gunshot wounds. He was immediately transported to a hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Despite his critical condition, Officer Candanoza managed to relay the suspect’s license plate number to dispatchers.
This critical information allowed law enforcement, including state Highway Patrol and off-duty officers, to locate the vehicle and pursue the suspect into Van Zandt County.
The suspect was taken into custody without further incident, officials reported.
“We want to extend our deepest condolences to Officer Candanoza’s family during this incredibly difficult time,” said Hauger.
Officer Candanoza joined the Terrell Police Department on July 15, 2024. His untimely death has deeply shaken the community and his colleagues.
Terrell, located approximately 30 miles east of Dallas, mourns the loss of a dedicated public servant. Further details about the suspect and the investigation will be shared as they become available.
SANTA ANA, CA — Community members are expressing outrage and concern following the release of Alejandro Acosta Oliveros, a 45-year-old Santa Ana resident, who has been accused of abducting, torturing, and killing numerous cats throughout Orange County.
Despite the serious nature of the allegations, Oliveros has been released on bail and is now back in the community as the investigation continues.
Dubbed a “serial cat killer” by law enforcement, Oliveros was arrested earlier this week after Santa Ana Police officers executed a search warrant at his residence on Wilshire Avenue.
Authorities reported that Oliveros confessed to the crimes during questioning, though the full extent of his actions remains under active investigation.
Officials have yet to determine how many animals were harmed, but investigators have stated that the number is believed to be “significant.”
According to a spokesperson for the Santa Ana Police Department, “We are still working to determine the scope of this case and how many cats may have been victimized. The cruelty involved is deeply disturbing.”
Community concern has mounted in recent weeks, as residents across Santa Ana and neighboring areas began sharing surveillance footage and firsthand reports of cats being lured, abducted, and later found injured or deceased.
One widely shared video from March 21 in Westminster showed a man, believed to be Oliveros, capturing Clubber, a 10-month-old Bengal Lynx cat.
While Clubber was eventually recovered and returned to his home, the suspect remained at large—until his arrest this week.
Disturbing reports later emerged indicating that many of the missing cats may have been killed. Posts from platforms like Nextdoor recounted chilling details of cats being restrained or allegedly injected with unknown substances.
In one report, a neighbor stated: “We saw the man tie a cat’s legs and walk off toward McFadden.” Another added: “My neighbor’s cat was killed. He was injected with something and didn’t survive.”
Despite the severity of the charges, Oliveros was released on bail shortly after his arrest.
This development has alarmed residents, animal advocates, and grieving pet owners who say they now fear for the safety of their pets—and for the wellbeing of their community.
“This is not just about one person’s loss. This is about protecting countless animals who deserve safety, love, and life,” said one resident. “We need to remain vigilant, speak out, and demand justice.”
The public is strongly encouraged to take the following steps:
- Report any suspicious behavior toward animals to local law enforcement or animal control immediately.
- Speak with neighbors and friends to raise awareness about the situation.
- Contact local officials and media outlets to demand accountability and advocate for stricter laws to prevent animal cruelty.
- Support victims and families who are grieving the loss of beloved pets.
The Santa Ana Police Department has stated that formal charges are expected to be filed soon and emphasized that the investigation is ongoing.
Authorities continue to gather evidence and encourage anyone with information to come forward.
Anyone with relevant information is urged to contact the Santa Ana Police Department at (714) 245-8665.
The community’s continued cooperation and vigilance will be essential in seeking justice for the animals affected and ensuring that those responsible are held fully accountable.