HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — The Houston Police Department said the suspect accused of shooting and killing Brazoria County Deputy Jesus Vargas was shot to death, ending an hours-long manhunt.
The initial shooting happened shortly before noon on Stella Link Road, just north of the South Loop.
The sheriff’s office said Deputy Jesus “Jesse” Vargas was taken to Ben Taub Hospital, where he died.
Authorities said Vargas served the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office for 17 years. He leaves behind a wife and three children.
Shortly after authorities conducted a news conference about the search for the suspect, a “Blue Alert” was sent across the state.
WATCH: ABC13 WAS LIVE AS DETAILS DEVELOPED
ABC13 brought you live coverage as details were developing into the investigation of Brazoria County deputy Jesus Vargas’ shooting death.
The manhunt continued for nearly five hours until the suspect, identified as Robert Lee Davis, aka Sean Christopher Davis, was shot and killed by law enforcement.
Sources told Eyewitness News that he was hiding in a dumpster in an alleyway the entire time, near the initial shooting. A U.S. Marshall K-9, Rocky, alerted authorities, which led to Davis’ discovery.
UPDATE: A short time ago, the suspect was shot by law enforcement officers behind the businesses near the original shooting scene here on Stella Link.
— Houston Police (@houstonpolice) January 15, 2025
The suspect is deceased.
We will provide more information in a media briefing in due time. https://t.co/BcympVAVQh
Davis reportedly shot Rocky twice when authorities opened the dumpster, prompting officers to return fire.
A DPS helicopter rushed the federal K-9 to the Westbury Animal Hospital.
“This afternoon, we lost a local hero,” Mayor John Whitmire said. “(Vargas) attempted to apprehend a repeat violence offender, and he lost his life. The suspect shot (Vargas) as he approached him to serve the warrant.”
Records show Davis has a criminal history dating back to 1990, the most recent being from December 2024 for aggravated sexual assault charges against a relative.
“There is evil in this world. There are demonic people in this world,” U.S. Marshall Chief Michael O’Connor said. “Law enforcement stands steadfast to pursue this evilness and the demonic nature as they are predators preying on the public.”
WATCH: Authorities provide an update after suspect in deputy’s death was shot and killed
Authorities provide an update after a suspect wanted for Brazoria County Deputy Jesus Vargas’ death was shot and killed, HPD says.
