A Harris County deputy shooting suspect is in custody following an overnight manhunt in the Channelview area. Authorities captured 25-year-old Chase Layne Patin on Thursday morning without further incident.
The search began after a Harris County Sheriff’s Office deputy was shot Wednesday evening. The deputy remains hospitalized and is expected to recover, according to Sheriff Ed Gonzalez.
Deputy shot during family disturbance call
The incident began around 6:30 p.m. Wednesday in the 1100 block of Bayou Drive. The location is near the East Freeway in eastern Harris County.
Officials said the deputy had responded to a reported family disturbance. During the response, Patin allegedly opened fire and struck the deputy in the lower body.
Emergency crews transported the deputy to a local hospital. Authorities listed the deputy in fair condition after the shooting.
The sheriff’s office has not released the deputy’s identity. Additional information about the confrontation also remains limited.
Investigators have not explained what led to the gunfire. They also have not said whether other people were inside the property during the incident.
Harris County deputy shooting suspect takes patrol vehicle
After the shooting, Patin allegedly fled in a sheriff’s office patrol vehicle. Deputies later found the abandoned SUV near Dell Dale Avenue and the East Freeway.
The discovery shifted the search to surrounding streets and neighborhoods. Authorities warned residents that the suspect could be armed and dangerous.
The manhunt continued through Wednesday night and into Thursday morning. Residents reported a large police presence as officers searched the Channelview area.
Law enforcement officials also used aerial resources during the operation. Authorities asked nearby residents to remain alert and avoid the active search area.
Blue Alert issued during overnight search
The Texas Department of Public Safety issued a Blue Alert for Patin early Thursday. Blue Alerts notify the public when authorities seek someone accused of seriously injuring or killing a law enforcement officer.
The alert identified Patin and included his physical description. Officials instructed anyone who spotted him to call 911 and avoid approaching him.
The alert expanded public awareness as deputies continued searching the area. Patin was taken into custody more than 12 hours after the initial shooting, according to ABC13.
Gonzalez said officers arrested Patin without another confrontation. The sheriff’s office did not immediately provide the exact location or circumstances of the arrest.
Investigation continues after arrest
Authorities have not announced the charges Patin may face. The investigation could involve allegations connected to the shooting, the patrol vehicle and his reported flight from deputies.
Formal charges remain subject to review by prosecutors. Patin is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Officials also have not announced whether investigators recovered a firearm. Further details could emerge after detectives complete interviews and review available evidence.
The deputy’s expected recovery offered welcome news after a tense night for Channelview residents and law enforcement. The arrest also ended the immediate public safety threat connected to the search.
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office continues investigating the shooting. Community members with relevant video or firsthand information should contact the agency rather than post unverified claims online.