SUGAR LAND, Texas – An investigation is underway after a catalytic converter theft suspect was killed in an officer-involved shooting Thursday, officers with the Sugar Land Police Department said.
It happened around 10:05 p.m. on Stadium Drive.
SLPD said they responded to reports of catalytic converter thieves breaking into cars at an apartment complex. When officers arrived at the scene, the suspects were quickly located and a short pursuit ensued. The driver in the suspect vehicle stopped and ran into the woods near the bayou behind the complex and three other suspects jumped into the bayou, police said.
Officers said they were able to put a drone up and tracked the suspect that ran into the woods. When officers made contact with the suspect, the suspect produced a weapon and gunfire was exchanged, SLPD said. Investigators said the suspect was struck by an officer’s gunfire and was flown via Life Flight to Memorial Hermann Hospital, where he died from his injuries.
According to police, they continued to search for the three other outstanding suspects. Right now, it is unknown if any of them were found.
No officers were injured in the incident. Investigators said a baseball game at the stadium was still going when the pursuit and shooting occurred.
Police told KPRC 2 that so far, three people in the area have reported that their catalytic converter was stolen.