By Sarah Al-Shaikh, ABC13 Houston
HARRIS COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) — New details have emerged about a search for an evading suspect in north Harris County on Saturday, according to Harris County Precinct 4 Constable Mark Herman.
Herman told ABC13 that the wanted suspect has been identified as James Willis, 35, of Dallas, Texas.
Constable Herman said Willis came to the area, allegedly assaulted his significant other and was arrested on a family violence charge.
After the arrest, Herman said Willis complained of chest pain, which prompted officers to take him to the hospital.
During medical testing, Herman said a nurse requested that Willis’ handcuffs be removed. Officials said that’s when Willis took off and escaped from HCA Houston Healthcare Northwest.
The search first started Saturday around 3:40 p.m. on Westfield Place and the North Freeway.
About two blocks away, Herman said Willis carjacked a driver without using a weapon.
According to Herman, the driver took Willis several blocks before he jumped out and fled again.
Willis is currently facing charges of family violence, evading arrest, and carjacking, according to Herman.
Law enforcement searched for him for about five hours on Saturday, and Herman said teams are continuing the search on Sunday.
He added that investigators believe Willis may have returned to the Dallas area, and authorities there have been notified.
As for the alleged victim, Constable Herman said deputies are providing security and he confirmed she is safe.
This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.