The Police News
November 9, 2009

HOUSTON - An armed suspect was fatally shot during a struggle with Houston police officers at 6200 Bellaire about 10:55 p.m. on Saturday (Nov. 7).

The dead man, 26, suffered multiple gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene.  His identify is pending verification by the Harris County Medical Examiner's Office.

Officer  J.F. Lucero, who discharged his duty weapon, was not injured.
Officer Lucero is a 7-year veteran officer and assigned to the Gang Division's Crime Reduction Unit.

HPD Homicide Division Sergeant C. Elliott and Officer A. Mares reported that officers patrolling the southwest Houston area observed three men walking through a convenience store parking lot.  One of the individuals was seen carrying an open container of beer.  Officers stopped the three men on the liquor violation and began searching them for possible weapons. 

As the officers completed their search of one individual, he attempted to flee and then began struggling with the officers.  During the struggle, the man reached into his waistband and drew a pistol.
At that time, Officer Lucero drew his pistol and shot him.

The shooting will be investigated by the HPD Homicide and Internal Affairs Divisions, as well as the Harris County District Attorney's Office.