HOUSTON – A man was hit and killed by a Houston Police Department officer’s vehicle during a pursuit Saturday evening, officials said on Twitter.
According to HPD, the man, who was a bystander, was killed in the 9100 block of Scott Street near Reed.
Authorities say the entire situation began when a woman called to report that her truck had been stolen after she was held at gunpoint in the 3313 block of Tangerine Street.
Officers responded moments later, however, the five suspects had already fled in the stolen vehicle.
Police were able to quickly locate the stolen vehicle with the help of the car dealership.
When officers pulled behind the stolen car, the driver sped off, initiating the chase.
Additional HPD officers who heard the call attempted to offer backup in the pursuit, turning on their lights and sirens.
Moments later is when police say an officer involved in the chase lost control of his unit, fatally hitting the bystander on the sidewalk.
The 25-year-old officer who hit the victim is said to have had two years of experience on the job. He has since been placed on administrative leave.
“They’re devasted. Devastated, OK? A man lost his life,” HPD Assitant Chief Larry Satterwhite said. “They [were] trying to catch up, trying to help in a very volatile situation.”
Officials say the District Attorney’s office will not file charges, however a grand jury to figure out if any should be filed.
Three underaged suspects were taken into custody. Authorities say the other two remain on the run.
READ: The document below addresses how officers and supervisors engage in police chases:
