Suspect killed in police-involved shooting after 2 people were kidnapped

HOUSTON – A suspect died Sunday following a police chase that began as a domestic violence report, police said.

Houston Police Department Executive Chief Thomas Hardin said officers were called to a report of domestic violence involving an assault between a husband and wife. They share a young child together, authorities said.

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Following the incident, the victim of the incident set out to spend the night with a relative.

Hardin said that the suspect in the domestic violence incident went to his relative’s house on Monday and kidnapped his wife and child at gunpoint.

Houston police received a call about a kidnapping and responded to an area where the person reporting the kidnapping believed the suspect and victims were located.

Hardin said officers obtained a description of the suspect’s vehicle, located the suspect’s vehicle traveling near an apartment complex, attempted a traffic stop, and the vehicle fled.

As the vehicle fled, the suspect leaned out the window and fired at officers at two separate times, Hardin said.

At this point, a helicopter was called and units retreated in the hope that the suspect would step aside or release the hostages, according to police. However, officials said this did not happen.

As the chase, which authorities say lasted more than 10 minutes, entered the Southwest Freeway, a PIT maneuver was performed to end the pursuit due to timing during rush hour.

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After the PIT maneuver was performed, Hardin said an officer-involved shooting occurred. Three police officers opened fire on the suspect. It is unclear how many shots were fired.

Police officers then removed both victims from the vehicle, removed the suspect, and administered first aid.

Hardin said the suspect was pronounced dead at the scene.

Both victims were safe and unharmed but shaken, authorities said.

No other injuries were reported in connection with the pursuit.

Police could not say how long the highway would remain closed as the investigation into the incident continues.

Houston Mayor John Whitmire, who was seen at the scene, said at a press conference that anyone who is a victim of domestic violence should seek help, regardless of the reason.