Confusion Strikes Texas With Blue Alert On Armed Suspect

If you received a Blue Alert on July 10 at your phone, you weren't alone. Texans across our state were sent the message regarding a suspect being on the run after they ambushed a North Texas ICE facility and injured one of the guards. The alert was quick, urgent, and confusing for many people.

So, what is a Blue Alert exactly?

Blue Alerts are a part of a statewide alert system allowing law enforcement to warn the public when there is a suspect actively being searched for due to seriously injuring or killing a law enforcement officer. Blue Alerts are similar to Amber Alerts, only instead of missing children, the alerts issue information about dangerous suspects who are an immediate danger to the public, especially if they are armed and on the run.

In this case, the suspect was reported to be armed and dangerous. The actual shooting occurred at 3 a.m. of a possible ambush outside of a Department of Homeland Security ICE building in El Paso. The suspect was in a white Ford Fusion with Texas plates. The blue alert quickly got this information out.

So, what do I do when I receive one?

Read the alert carefully and use it to gather pertinent details, like suspect description, vehicle description, and location information.

Do not try to play the hero. If you see something suspicious, call 911.

Stay aware of your surroundings. These alerts are only issued when there is an active and dangerous threat.

Getting a loud and unexpected alert on your phone can be startling, but the alerts are meant to save lives. The next time you receive a Blue Alert you need to understand that it is more than just a buzz. A Blue Alert is a warning, and your awareness could make a difference.