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.
Crime
17-year-old Tyshawn Johnson killed in Andersonville shooting
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.