Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner announced that five Houston police officers were hurt Monday afternoon while serving a warrant; four of them were shot, according to police as they clarified an earlier report from the department.
There were three suspects involved, according to CBS News. Two of them died. The status of a third suspect is not known at this time.
HPD says officers were struck by gunfire along Harding Street in Houston.
CBS News reports two officers are in critical condition and the other three are in stable condition. Of those in critical condition, one is in surgery and another has been discharged. The other officers are expected to make a full recovery.
Houston Police tweeted that this all happened following an encounter with a suspect.
HPD responding to a scene at 7800 Harding where officers have been struck with gunfire following an encounter with a suspect. Officers are en route to the hospital. Please avoid the area and yield for emergency vehicles. Further updates will be provided as available. #hounews— Houston Police (@houstonpolice) January 28, 2019
The suspects, according to CBS News, were reportedly barricaded inside a residence.
Houston Police held a news conference late Monday.
Mayor @SylvesterTurner and Police Chief @ArtAcevedo Media Briefing on Shooting of 5 HPD Officers https://t.co/1PkSvaDg9j— Houston Police (@houstonpolice) January 29, 2019
Houston Police Chief Art Acevedo told people to pray for officers in a tweet:
We have had several officers shot please pray for officers on the way to the scene now more information to follow.— Chief Art Acevedo (@ArtAcevedo) January 28, 2019
The incident happened near Milby High School, according to CBS News. Members of SWAT and ATF responded to the scene.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott released a statement about the shooting Monday evening:
“This evening’s horrific attack on police officers is a solemn reminder of the service and sacrifice our brave men and women in law enforcement make every day to keep us safe. The city of Houston and the Houston Police Department will have whatever state resources they need to bring swift justice to those involved. I ask all Texans to join Cecilia and me in praying for the officers injured, and for the continued safety of all law enforcement officers who protect our communities.”
Ken Paxton, the Attorney General of Texas, also released a statement late Monday:
“I am deeply troubled to learn that five Houston police officers have been wounded in the line of duty this evening. The thoughts and prayers of countless Texans are with the officers, their families, and the Houston Police Department. May this tragic event serve as a reminder of the courage with which law enforcement officials serve each day.”
