Crime
Suspect Robert Lee Davis shot and killed on Stella Link in SW Houston
The Houston Police Department has confirmed that suspect Robert Lee Davis, also known as Sean Christopher Davis, was shot and killed by law enforcement officers late Wednesday morning.
The confrontation occurred behind a series of businesses near the original shooting location on Stella Link Road, north of the South Loop.
The tragic incident began earlier in the day when Brazoria County Sheriff’s Deputy Jesus “Jesse” Vargas was fatally shot while attempting to apprehend Davis, a repeat violent offender, during the execution of a warrant.
Deputy Vargas was rushed to Ben Taub Hospital but succumbed to his injuries.
Deputy Vargas was a 17-year veteran of the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office and leaves behind a grieving wife and three children. “This afternoon, we lost a local hero,” stated Houston Mayor John Whitmire.
“Deputy Vargas was dedicated to his community, and he gave his life in the line of duty while confronting a dangerous individual. Our hearts are with his family and the entire Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office during this unimaginable time.”
Following the initial shooting, authorities launched a manhunt for Davis, described as a 56-year-old Black male, standing 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighing 220 pounds. He was last seen wearing a blue Nike hoodie with white lettering, blue jeans, and blue sneakers. A “Blue Alert” was issued statewide, urging the public to report any sightings and avoid the area.
Davis had an extensive criminal record dating back to 1990, with charges ranging from violent offenses to aggravated sexual assault as recently as December 2024. Law enforcement emphasized the danger posed by Davis, underscoring the urgency of the manhunt.
Law enforcement officers located Davis near Stella Link Road just before noon. Details surrounding the fatal encounter have not been fully released, but Davis was pronounced deceased at the scene. Authorities have confirmed there is no ongoing threat to the public.
The loss of Deputy Vargas has prompted an outpouring of condolences and tributes from across the community. Multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Houston Police Department and the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office, are continuing the investigation into the circumstances of both shootings.
“We stand united in honoring the sacrifice of Deputy Vargas and in ensuring justice is served,” said Police Chief Troy Finner. Updates will be provided as additional information becomes available.
The Houston Police Department urges anyone with further details related to this case to contact their office or Crime Stoppers of Houston.
West Manchester Township, PA – Governor Josh Shapiro spoke at UPMC Memorial following a tragic active shooter incident inside the hospital on Saturday morning.
According to officials, the incident began at approximately 10:35 a.m. when a gunman entered UPMC Memorial Hospital and opened fire.
Six individuals sustained gunshot wounds, including three medical staff members and three police officers. Among the victims, West York Borough Police Officer Andrew Duarte was fatally shot at the scene.
The shooter, identified as Diogenes Archangel Ortiz, reportedly entered the hospital armed with a handgun and carrying zip ties.
Authorities stated that Ortiz proceeded directly to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where he held several UPMC staff members hostage.
At one point, Ortiz allegedly zip-tied a hospital staff member’s hands together and held them at gunpoint in the hallway.
Responding officers engaged the suspect and fatally shot him during the confrontation.
Governor Shapiro and State Attorney General Dave Sunday emphasized that law enforcement officers acted appropriately, stating there was “no doubt” that the use of deadly force was justified in neutralizing the shooter.
Officials confirmed that the remaining victims are in stable condition. In the wake of this tragedy, West York Borough Police issued a statement on Facebook mourning the loss of Officer Duarte:
“Our West York Borough family is suffering a painful loss today in response to a tragic mutual aid call earlier today in West Manchester Township at UPMC. Our hearts break at the innocent loss of life.”
The department also invited members of the community to pay their respects by laying flowers at 1381 West Poplar Street, West York Borough, Pennsylvania.
Out of respect for the families, no further comments were made by the department.
WellSpan York Hospital received five individuals from the shooting incident at UPMC Memorial.
The hospital issued the following statement:
“Shortly after 11:00 a.m., WellSpan York Hospital clinical teams were notified of an active shooter situation with injuries at a nearby hospital. At approximately 12:00 p.m., the first patient arrived from this incident for treatment at the hospital. Emergency Department teams have evaluated five individuals for treatment and we do not expect to receive any additional patients. Due to HIPAA privacy regulations, we are unable to disclose specific patient details.”
Additionally, UPMC Memorial issued a statement confirming that no patients were harmed and that the hospital is now secure but on divert as law enforcement continues its investigation.
The hospital expressed gratitude for the rapid response of local, state, and federal agencies and advised non-scheduled employees to remain home.
A hotline has been established for concerned family members of patients: 717-849-5338 or 717-849-5334.
Families arriving on-site are directed to the OSS building parking lot across the street from the hospital.
Governor Shapiro addressed the situation via his X (formerly Twitter) account, stating:
“I’ve been briefed on the tragic shooting at UPMC Memorial Hospital in York County and I am on my way to the scene. The hospital is now secure, and members of the @PAStatePolice and @PEMAHQ are on the ground responding alongside our local and federal partners. Follow the direction of local authorities and stay clear of the area. We will share more updates as they become available.”
In a joint statement, State Senator Dawn Keefer and State Representative Seth Grove expressed their condolences and gratitude for emergency responders:
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic shooting at UPMC this morning. Our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and all those affected by this senseless act of violence.
We are immensely grateful to our local law enforcement departments, Pennsylvania State Police, UPMC officers, Pennsylvania Game Wardens, York County Sheriffs, EMS, and all other emergency responders for their swift actions in securing the scene, treating the wounded, and ensuring the safety of our community. Their dedication and bravery in moments of crisis are truly commendable.
As we continue to monitor this heartbreaking situation, we join our community in praying for UPMC patients and staff, those who were injured, and the loved ones coping with an unthinkable act. We stand ready to support those impacted in any way we can.”
Additionally, State Representative Carol Hill-Evans shared her thoughts on Facebook:
“I am shocked and saddened at the tragic shooting at UPMC Memorial in York. A hospital is a place of hope and healing, not of fear and terror. Please join me in praying for the family of the heroic police officer who laid down his life to defend his community and thanking the health care professionals and emergency service personnel who put patients and their families first every day.”
Authorities have confirmed that the threat has been neutralized and there is no current danger to the public.
However, law enforcement continues to investigate the circumstances leading up to the shooting.
Residents are advised to avoid the area as police remain on scene conducting their investigation. A news conference is expected to provide further details in the coming days.
This remains a developing story, and more updates will be provided as they become available.