A Texas deputy died Thursday night time after being shot in a grocery retailer car parking zone.

Harris County Sheriff’s Workplace Deputy Darren Almendarez was off responsibility when he exited an Aldine Westfield grocery retailer together with his spouse and noticed two or three male suspects who seemed to be burglarizing a motorized vehicle. 

“Probably a catalytic converter that was being stolen,” Sheriff Ed Gonzalez mentioned at a information convention. “We’re undecided. These particulars are nonetheless being investigated. However, he intervened. He intervened to attempt to cease a criminal offense.”

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In response to FOX 26, Almendarez noticed what seemed to be theft occurring to his personal car. 

The 51-year-old was then confronted by the suspects. He was in a position to seize a pistol, though there was a little bit of a battle. 

Almendarez was hit throughout an change of gunfire however was in a position to strike two individuals who later drove themselves to the hospital. 

“And, actually a hero, as a result of as all of this was unfolding he had the mindset to verify he was defending his spouse. He advised his spouse to run, to get away from hazard, as he put himself in hurt’s solution to shield the remainder of the group and to attempt to cease a criminal offense,” Gonzalez advised reporters. 

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He known as the dying tragic and known as crime in the neighborhood “unacceptable,” noting that there’s probably a 3rd particular person on the run.

Almendarez, a 23-year veteran of the sheriff’s workplace who was most just lately assigned to the auto theft division, was additionally remembered as a “fighter.” 

FOX 26 reported that the suspects went to HCA Houston Healthcare Northwest, the place the deputy later died. Gonzalez mentioned the suspects are in steady situation.

The station famous that authorities presently do not have the identification of the third suspect. 

Almendarez’s physique will reportedly be taken to the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences.

“Deputy Darren Almendarez beloved our group and labored onerous each single day to make the world a greater and safer place,” the Houston Police Officers’ Union wrote on Fb early Friday. “His sacrifice won’t ever be forgotten and he’ll all the time be remembered. Relaxation in peace, brother.”