HIGHLANDS, TEXAS — A retired 64-year-old Baytown police officer and a burglary suspect were hospitalized after engaging in a shootout in Highlands, according to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.
The incident began when a suspect was caught on camera breaking into a home in the Highland Crossing neighborhood, according to KTRK. The homeowner, Patches Mohhamad, was not present at the time of the break-in.
Mohhamad believes the intruder was deterred by the alarm and left shortly after entering.
Surveillance footage showed the suspect wandering the neighborhood, where the retired officer spotted him.
The officer, driving a white Chevy Suburban, pursued the suspect on foot, leading to a confrontation and subsequent shootout at East Wallisville Road and Thompson.
An eyewitness, who wished to remain anonymous for safety reasons, recounted the scene to ABC13.
The witness stated they heard three gunshots and saw a bullet come within inches of their truck. They then assisted the wounded retired officer, who was holding down the suspect, by securing the suspect’s weapon and providing aid to the injured officer.
The officer appeared to have been hit or grazed near the ear, causing significant blood loss.
Both the retired officer and the suspect were taken to the hospital for treatment.
The officer’s family told ABC13 that he is expected to make a full recovery.
Mohhamad expressed gratitude that she and her family were unharmed, considering the potential danger if they had been present during the break-in.
The retired officer’s daughter stated that her father is known for keeping watch over the neighborhood.