HCSO identifies Sgt. Watson as off-duty deputy killed in motorcycle crash in Pearland

An off-duty Harris County Sheriff’s Office sergeant was killed in a crash Saturday afternoon in Pearland, officials said. The incident occurred around 1:15 p.m. near Shadow Creek Parkway and Kinsley Drive.

HCSO identified Sgt. Bruce Watson, a 20-year department veteran, who had just finished an off-duty job leading a funeral procession and was on his way home. He later died from his injuries at Memorial Hermann Hospital.

The sergeant was riding his motorcycle when he got involved in a crash with an SUV. The driver stopped after the crash, and showed no signs of drugs or intoxication, according to Pearland Police Department.

Investigators said it appears to be an accident, while they are still investigating how the crash occurred.

At this time, investigators are unsure who was at fault.

“Our entire Sheriff’s Office family is grieving the sudden loss of our long-time brother,” said Sheriff Ed Gonzalez. “Sgt. Watson served his community with honor and distinction, and we ask for everyone to lift his family in prayer during this difficult time.”

Watson, 51, was assigned to the Patrol Support Services Bureau, working the night shift at the Emergency Dispatch Center. He joined the Sheriff’s Office in March 2000 and previously served as a Detention Sergeant in the Harris County Jail, a patrol field training officer, and an instructor at the training academy. He was also a U.S. Army veteran.

Watson is survived by his wife, a Houston Police Department Officer, and his three adult children, two daughters and a son. The funeral arrangements for Watson are pending.

Pearland Police Department is working on the scene.