Off-duty deputy constable opens fire after dispute with man in Highlands

HARRIS COUNTY – An off-duty sergeant from the Harris County Precinct 3 Constable's Office shot a man who tried to run him over and stab him, a spokesman from the Harris County Sheriff's Office confirmed Saturday.

"He does not know this person. He's never had any encounters with him," Sgt. Cedrick Collier said.

Investigators said the man, who was not identified Saturday, drove to the sergeant's home on the 1700 block of N. Main Street in Highlands. Officials said said it's likely the man stopped because he saw the sergeant's patrol vehicle.

"He heard a knock at the door. He went to the door to answer," Collier said.

Investigators said the sergeant answered the door. When he did, the man asked to speak to the person who drives the patrol unit. The sergeant identified himself, officials said, but the man did not believe him, asking to see his badge.

The sergeant went inside his house to retrieve his badge, duty weapon and ID, investigators said. He also called officers from Precinct 3, asking for backup, a spokesman said. Investigators said the sergeant exited his house and walked toward N. Main to wait for officers to arrive.

"The suspect entered his vehicle that he drove to this residence, put it in reverse and attempted to run over the sergeant and pin him between the fence and the car," Collier said.

Investigators said the man then parked his car and got out with a knife, telling the officer that he would assault him.

"The sergeant told him put down the knife to not approach him," Collier said. "The suspect approached anyhow, at which time the officer discharged the weapon twice striking the suspect in the stomach."

The man was flown to Memorial Hermann Hospital by Life Flight. Officials said he was in critical condition.

Investigators said it was unclear why the man targeted the sergeant.

The sergeant is a five-year veteran of Precinct 3. Officials said he would be placed on administrative duty pending an investigation.