Crime
Brazoria County Deputy Jesus “Jesse” Vargas shot and killed in the line of duty
The suspect has been identified as Robert Lee Davis III, also known as Sean Christopher Davis, a 56-year-old male.
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Brazoria County Deputy Jesus “Jesse” Vargas, who was tragically shot and killed in the line of duty earlier today while serving his community.
Deputy Vargas, a dedicated 17-year veteran of the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office, leaves behind his wife and three children, as well as a legacy of honorable service to his department and community.
Deputy Vargas was fatally shot while attempting to serve a warrant against a repeat violent offender for aggravated assault.
The suspect opened fire as Vargas approached, striking him fatally. The incident occurred on Stella Link Road near the I-610 South Loop in Houston.
Despite immediate efforts, Deputy Vargas succumbed to his injuries after being transported to a local hospital.
A massive law enforcement response ensued, with multiple agencies working together to locate the suspect.
The suspect has been identified as Robert Lee Davis III, also known as Sean Christopher Davis, a 56-year-old male.
Description of the Suspect:
- Height: 5’10”
- Weight: Approximately 200 pounds
- Appearance: Black hair, brown eyes
- Clothing: Blue Nike hoodie with white lettering, blue jeans, and blue sneakers
A Blue Alert has been issued statewide. Law enforcement agencies, including K9 units and Texas DPS helicopters, are conducting an active manhunt to locate Davis, who remains at large. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any information to 911 immediately.
A perimeter has been established around the area, with roadways blocked and a significant police presence, including the Houston Police Department, Texas DPS, and members of the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office. Houston Mayor John Whitmire and Harris County Constable Alan Rosen have expressed their condolences and support.
Constable Rosen stated:
“We are praying for the officer shot while serving a warrant this morning. Please keep this officer and his family in your prayers. Deputies from my office are working tirelessly alongside other agencies to apprehend the suspect.”
The Houston Police Department confirmed the ongoing search via social media, noting that the suspect fled the scene after the shooting.
Deputy Vargas was deeply respected by his colleagues and community for his unwavering dedication and service. His passing is a devastating loss, not only for his family but also for the entire Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office.
In this time of grief, we ask the public to join us in offering prayers and support for Deputy Vargas’s family, friends, and colleagues. Mental health and grief counseling services will be made available to members of the Sheriff’s Office and their families.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available regarding the investigation and the ongoing search for the suspect.
Deputy Vargas’s sacrifice serves as a solemn reminder of the risks taken by law enforcement officers to protect and serve. His commitment to justice and public safety will never be forgotten.
CHICAGO, IL – Authorities have identified the individual fatally shot in an Andersonville alley on Tuesday night as Tyshawn Johnson, a 17-year-old from Chicago’s South Side.
Initially reported as a 21-year-old man, Johnson’s identity was confirmed by the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office.
The tragic incident unfolded in the 5400 block of North Ashland Avenue at approximately 9:15 p.m. Chicago police discovered two victims following a vehicle crash into a garage in the alley.
Tyshawn Johnson was found inside the crashed vehicle with a gunshot wound to his head. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.
A 26-year-old man, also found at the location, sustained gunshot wounds to his shoulder and neck. Paramedics transported him in critical condition to St. Francis Hospital in Evanston.
The 26-year-old survivor informed officers that the shooting occurred while the vehicle was in the alley. However, no gunshots were reported in the immediate vicinity, leading officials to believe the shooting may have taken place elsewhere before the car ended up in the Andersonville alley.
Chicago Police Department’s Area 3 detectives are actively investigating the case. No arrests have been made as of now.
In a statement, 40th Ward Alderman Andre Vasquez addressed the situation, acknowledging the absence of gunfire reports in the neighborhood and expressing condolences to the victims’ families.
As the investigation continues, anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact authorities. This tragic event highlights the ongoing challenges of gun violence impacting communities across the city.