A Lee County sheriff’s deputy is in the hospital after sustaining injuries during a Tuesday (May 10) night shootout, according to reports from Austin-based media outlets.
Austin FOX affiliate KTBC reported that the incident occurred in Dime Box, which is about 70 miles east of the state capital. Citing a local publication, the station reported that a male suspect was killed.
The unidentified deputy was flown to Austin for medical treatment and is purportedly listed in stable condition, per KTBC.
“Our prayers are with the deputy and we’re hopeful for good news on his condition,” the Sheriffs’ Association of Texas wrote on its Facebook page.
According to KTBC, three other individuals were reportedly involved in the incident but are believed to be safe.
Authorities identified the deceased suspect as Raul Vega Perez, Austin ABC affiliate KVUE reported.
At the time of the shooting, per the Lee County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO), Perez was attempting to flee to Mexico after a warrant was issued for him for failure to appear/sexual assault of a child.
KVUE reported that authorities tracked Perez down to a residence in Dime Box and traded gunshots with him after he allegedly opened fire.
Austin NBC affiliate KXAN reported that Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) was at the scene, and the Texas Rangers are presently investigating the case.
Lee County Sheriff Casey Goetz said the shooting of the deputy is the first to occur under his watch since he assumed office in early 2021, per the station.
