HUMBLE, Texas – Authorities are investigating a shooting involving a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) trooper that left a 17-year-old boy injured on Friday morning in Humble.
The traffic stop and search
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The incident unfolded around 11 a.m. near Will Clayton Parkway and Village Tower Drive when the trooper conducted a traffic stop on a Kia Sorento. During the stop, the trooper saw what appeared to be drug activity. The driver, a woman, and her teenage passenger were both asked to exit the vehicle. While searching the teen, the trooper reportedly felt what seemed to be a gun on him.
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Teen fleeing and escalation of events
According to Jim Willis, a private investigator and licensed police officer, this moment was crucial. “The young man realized the trooper felt something on him that he didn’t want the officer to know about, which led him to push away and attempt to flee on foot,” Willis explained in an interview. The teen managed to cross approximately 200 to 300 yards before entering a grassy area, with the trooper in pursuit.
Officer’s response and use of deadly force
As the chase continued, Willis observed that the situation escalated when the teen began reaching into his waistband, where the officer had previously felt the weapon. “At this point, the trooper had no choice but to draw his sidearm. He had to act to protect himself,” Willis said. The trooper fired, striking the teen.
Trooper’s actions after the shooting
Afterward, the trooper immediately took steps to assess safety and provide any necessary first aid, while making sure his surroundings were secure. Despite efforts to assist, the incident left the teen with serious injuries and the officer grappling with the consequences of his actions.
Reflections on the situation
Willis, who has extensive experience in law enforcement, emphasized that situations like this are extremely traumatic for everyone involved. “This is a scenario that no one wants. This young man is injured, the trooper has to live with what happened, and the mother of the boy has to witness her son being shot,” Willis said. He also pointed out that it is highly concerning for a 17-year-old to be carrying a firearm. “Parents need to have conversations with their children about the dangers of carrying weapons and the consequences of engaging with law enforcement in such a manner.”
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The complexity of law enforcement decisions
While the officer’s decision to use deadly force will be scrutinized, Willis noted the complexity of such encounters. “Law enforcement officers are trained to handle fluid, high-stress situations like this. They must make split-second decisions to ensure their own safety and the safety of those around them,” he said. He also highlighted that officers never go to work hoping to be involved in shootings but must act when confronted with life-threatening situations.
Investigation and community impact
The teen’s actions, and the officer’s response, will be under review by multiple agencies, including the criminal justice system, to determine whether the use of force was justified. As the investigation continues, the community and the families of both individuals will be left to process the aftermath of this tragic event.
