Deputy constable shot in N. Harris County; SWAT team finds suspect dead inside apartment: HCSO

HOUSTON – Authorities said a Harris County Precinct 4 deputy constable was shot and the suspect was found dead in north Harris County Tuesday.

Investigators said three deputy constables responded to a domestic disturbance call, the second of the night, at an apartment complex located at 13875 Ella Blvd.

When Deputy Constable Christopher Hendrix and two other deputy constables arrived at the scene, they knocked on the door where the suspect was staying, investigators said. Then, the suspect opened the door and started shooting, Harris County Precinct 4 Constable Mark Herman said. Authorities said a bullet struck Hendrix in his lower abdomen.

“The suspect opens the door and shoots Deputy Hendrix at point-blank range,” said Constable Herman. “The doctor was kind of concerned about where he was shot. If it would’ve been an inch or two in another direction, it could’ve been really, really bad for him.”

Constable Herman swore Hendrix into the department back in March. Hendrix had been on the streets alone for only a month.

“We have a young deputy that is energetic and just trying to find his way in law enforcement. He goes to a call for service, trying to help the community,” said Herman.

Earlier Tuesday morning, Constable Herman posted this picture, smiling with Hendrix’s mother and sister in the waiting room.

Hendrix underwent a successful surgery and is expected to make a full recovery.

“We feel that God was looking out for our deputy and protected him,” said Herman.

Deputy Hendrix was rushed into surgery at Memorial Hermann Hospital in The Woodlands. Authorities said Hendrix is in stable condition and is expected to make a full recovery. There is no word yet on when Hendrix will be released from the hospital.

Investigators said the suspect had a history of mental health issues.