Suspect, Ronnie Palmer, Arrested Overnight In Shooting Of Texas Deputy

UPDATE 7-12-24 12:29 PM: ABC13 Houston has reported Ronnie Palmer has been taken into custody.

Police in the state of Texas have begun a manhunt to locate Ronnie Palmer for his suspected involvement in the shooting of an officer. Here's what is known.

Officer In Texas Passes Away Due To Shooting

It was revealed on the morning of July 11th, 2024, that Deputy Fernando Esqueda of the Harris County's Sheriff's Office has passed away:

As reported by ABC13 Houston, , via Chief Deputy Mike Lee, Police were alerted to a call about an aggravated assault around 10:10 PM on July 10th, 2024. At the time, the unidentified suspect became agitated at a Little Caeser's pizza when the food they ordered was not right. The suspect then attacked employees at the eatery, and then fled.

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After the suspect's vehicle identification was relayed to officers, they then set out to find said car and the suspect.

Deputy Fernando Esqueda Finds Vehicle, Alleged To Have Been Attacked

ABC13 Houston stated that Esqueda was able to locate the vehicle in question. However, it was reported that Esqueda attacked by surprise. Per Chief Deputy Mike Lee:

"During that phone conversation, our deputy apparently was ambushed...The other detectives in the area went to his location, and at that time, saw his undercover vehicle with multiple gun strikes in it."

Esqueda was quickly transported to a hospital via a police vehicle, we he later sadly passed from his injuries. The Harris County Sheriff's Office released a photo of the suspect:

If you've seen Ronnie Palmer, you can alert police by phoning the Sheriff's Office at 713-221-6000 or Houston Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS (8477). As this is a developing story, we will have more information when it becomes available.