HARRIS COUNTY, Texas – A wanted murder suspect is in custody after barricading himself for several hours inside a West Harris County apartment.
According to Maj. Earl Dean with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, they responded to the complex at 2031 Westborough Drive after receiving a call about a weapons disturbance.
When they arrived, they met a woman who told them a man who was possibly wanted in connection to a murder on May 7 was inside the apartment.
Dean said after lengthy talks with the man, SWAT was called and they continued trying to negotiate with him.
“He was communicating, we even had family members on the scene that he was communicating with,” Dean said.
Update: male has been taken into custody without further incident. The suspect is believed to be Tilford Anthony Joseph (7-22-77). Joseph was wanted for Murder and Aggravated Assault of a Peace Officer. A media partner briefing will take place at approximately 8:45pm. https://t.co/Wys87khiXt
— Ed Gonzalez (@SheriffEd_HCSO) May 9, 2024
After several hours of unsuccessful negotiations, gas was deployed and the suspect came out and surrendered. The suspect was being checked out by medical personnel, but authorities do not believe he was hurt.
Dean identified the suspect as Tilford Anthony Joseph, 46. He was wanted on a murder charge as well as a charge of aggravated assault of a peace officer.
A neighbor who lives at the complex spoke about the response he saw.
“Allegedly. You know, his just, his crimes are pretty severe which definitely requires the attention of such a heavy presence. And I’m just glad that they were able to keep the community safe. As well as themselves, ultimately, because they put their lives on the line every single day,” said Nicholas Loften.
Authorities say he is believed to be connected to a deadly shooting in Houston’s Museum District Tuesday morning.
Teresa Houston, 44, an Alvin ISD staff member, was killed in the shooting. A Harris County Pct. 7 Constable Deputy was also involved in a gun battle with the suspect after he allegedly took Houston’s black Camaro.
The deputy tried to pull the suspect over and the suspect opened fire. During the gun battle, the suspect ended up stealing the deputy’s patrol vehicle before returning to get back into the Camaro, at which time a second gun battle happened between the suspect and the deputy.
The deputy was hurt when he fell and hit his head, but he was expected to be ok.