The Houston Police Department announced that they have successfully apprehended the suspect who allegedly shot and killed Deputy Jesus Vargas from Brazoria County. The suspect was shot and killed, putting an end to the intense manhunt that lasted for several hours.
A shooting occurred around midday on Stella Link Road, located just north of the South Loop.
Deputy Jesus “Jesse” Vargas was transported to Ben Taub Hospital by the sheriff’s office, where he tragically passed away.
Vargas dedicated 17 years of his life to serving the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office. He is survived by his wife and three children.
Shortly after authorities held a press conference regarding the search for the suspect, a statewide “Blue Alert” was issued.
Law enforcement pursued the suspect, Robert Lee Davis, also known as Sean Christopher Davis, for almost five hours before taking him down.
According to insider information received by Eyewitness News, it has been revealed that he spent the entire time hiding in a dumpster located in an alleyway near the site of the initial shooting. Authorities were able to locate him with the help of a highly trained U.S. Marshal K-9 named Rocky, who alerted them to his presence.
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.
The suspect is deceased.We will provide more information in a media briefing in due time. https://t.co/BcympVAVQh
— Houston Police (@houstonpolice) January 15, 2025
According to reports, Davis allegedly fired two shots at Rocky when the authorities opened the dumpster, causing the officers to respond with gunfire.
The federal K-9 was rushed to the Westbury Animal Hospital by a DPS helicopter.
“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.”
According to records, Davis has a criminal history that dates back to 1990. The most recent incident occurred in December 2024, where he faced charges of aggravated sexual assault 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.”