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.
HARRIS COUNTY, TX — A juvenile male was shot and killed in the Northwest Park area, prompting an active investigation by the Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO).
Deputies responded at approximately 2:15 p.m. to reports of a shooting at a residential complex located at 10155 Bammel North Houston Road, near North Houston Rosslyn and Fallbrook Drive.
Upon arrival, deputies discovered a juvenile Hispanic male suffering from a gunshot wound.
Despite attempts by first responders to perform CPR and lifesaving measures, the victim was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Detectives from the Homicide Division, led by Detective Jason Brown, responded to conduct the investigation.
Based on initial witness statements, deputies were able to detain a 15-year-old male suspect believed to be involved in the incident.
According to preliminary findings, investigators believe the shooting may have occurred during a possible drug-related transaction.
At this stage, no additional suspects are believed to be involved.
Crime Scene Investigators (CSI) are processing evidence, while detectives continue to review surveillance footage from the apartment complex and interview witnesses.
The identity of the deceased has not yet been formally confirmed, though authorities believe they have located potential family members.
The investigation remains active and ongoing, and additional details will be released as they become available.