5 Houston Police Officers Injured, 2 Suspects Killed In Shootout

HOUSTON — Four Houston Police officers were shot when suspected drug dealers opened fire on police as they served a search warrant in a southeast Houston neighborhood Monday evening. Two suspects were killed in the shootout. A fifth officer was hurt while scrambling for cover.

The shooting, which began as soon as officers breached the front door of the house, was reported at around 5 p.m. in the 7800 block of Harding Street. Houston Police Chief Art Acevedo said the officers were wounded while serving a search warrant as part of a narcotics task force. Police had received several tips from residents that black tar heroin was being sold out of the home.

Acevedo said the officers announced themselves while breaching the front door and immediately were met by a barrage of gunfire.

Acevedo confirmed that four of the injured officers were struck by gunfire, while another officer sustained a knee injury while moving for cover during the shooting.

The suspects inside the home died at the scene, Acevedo said.

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

We currently have 5 officers shot, all on their way to the hospital. One is being life flighted. On the way to the hospital, will update when I can.

Please keep all the officers in your prayers!
— Joe Gamaldi (@JoeGamaldi) January 28, 2019

At least three of the officers were taken to Memorial Hermann Hospital via Life Flight helicopter, while two others were taken by EMS via ambulance.

Two of those officers were shot in the neck and were immediately taken into surgery. Both officers were in critical condition, Acevedo said.

Two other officers were shot and they will remain hospitalized for observation for at least a 24-hour period, Acevedo added. Both of those officers are expected to make a full recovery.

Just minutes after the officers arrived, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner came to the hospital to meet with the officers and their families.

Turner said one of the officers sustained superficial wounds in the shooting and would be going home after being treated.

"This has been a tough day for our city," said Turner, who asked citizens to pray for the officers and their families.

State leaders also sent along their public thoughts and prayers in support of the officers.

Attorney General Ken Paxton issued this statement following the injury of five Houston police officers:

“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.”

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott issued the following statement after it was reported that multiple Houston Police officers were shot in the line of duty:

“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.”

The names of the wounded officers and the suspects have not been released.

Police confirmed at about 7:15 p.m. that the scene was cleared and residents in the area were allowed to return to their homes.

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