A manhunt is under way in east Harris County after a sheriff’s deputy was shot while responding to a family disturbance in Channelview, Texas.
The deputy was attacked on Bayou Drive, near the I-10 East Freeway, on Wednesday evening, Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said. He was hit in the lower half of his body and taken to hospital in fair condition.
The deputy’s identity has not been released.
Blue Alert issued for Chase Layne Patin
Authorities are searching for Chase Layne Patin, who is wanted in connection with the shooting. A Blue Alert was issued after he was last seen in the Channelview area.
Investigators believe Patin fled from the scene in a sheriff’s patrol car. The vehicle was later found near Dale Dell and the I-10 East Freeway, but Patin was not inside.
He was reportedly wearing a black cap, grey shirt and black shorts. Members of the public have been warned not to approach him and to call 999 if they see him.
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office said residents could expect an increased law enforcement presence while the search continues.
According to Crime Stoppers of Houston, Patin had been wanted since 17 July after allegedly failing to obtain a court-ordered GPS monitor. He was out on bond in a case involving possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and had four previous felony convictions, Crime Stoppers representative Andy Kahan said.
A reward of up to $5,000 is being offered for information leading to his arrest.
Anyone with information about Patin’s whereabouts has been urged to contact emergency services immediately and not to intervene.
