2 HPD officers have been shot in southwest Houston, 1 has died

HOUSTON – Houston Police Chief Art Acevedo shared the news first on Twitter that two Houston police officers were shot Tuesday morning, one those officers has died as a result of the shooting. The shooting happened in the 2600 block of Hollyhall. SWAT officers had been deployed on the scene in southwest Houston, a suspect is now in custody.

The officer killed has been identified as Sgt. Harold Preston, a 41-year veteran of the department. He was preparing to retire this year.

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner has identified the second officer shot as Courtney Waller. He was shot in the arm and is expected to survive.

Acevedo said officers were responding to a domestic violence situation 7:55 a.m. at the Richmond Manor apartments in the 2600 block of Holly Hall and El Mundo, near Highway 288. When Preston, Waller and another officer arrived to the scene, the estranged wife of the suspect, identified as 51-year-old Elmer Manzano, told them she was moving out and wanted to retrieve items from the apartment. Around 9:25 a.m., Manzano produced and fired multiple rounds, hitting Waller and Preston, Acevedo said.

Governor Abbott Statement On Death Of Houston Police Sergeant

AUSTIN - Governor Greg Abbott today issued a statement after it was reported that two Houston Police Officers were shot in the line of duty this morning. Sergeant Harold Preston has died, and Officer Courtney Waller remains in the hospital with injuries.

"Our hearts are with the family of Houston Police Sgt. Harold Preston who was shot and killed in the line of duty this morning," said Governor Abbott. "This tragic loss is a grave reminder of the dangers our brave law enforcement officers face while keeping our communities safe. Cecilia and I ask our fellow Texans to join us in lifting up Sgt. Preston's family in prayer in their time of need. We also ask all Texans to pray for the speedy recovery of Houston Police Officer Courtney Waller who was shot while responding to the same incident and is recovering in the hospital. The state stands ready to assist the Houston Police Department in bringing to justice the perpetrators of this horrific tragedy."

Image Credit: Houston PD

Photo: Houston PD


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