Manhunt underway after US Marshal deputy shot and killed in Houston

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A manhunt is underway after a deputy was shot and killed while serving a warrant in southeast Houston on Wednesday.

Houston Police said 56-year-old Robert Lee Davis, also known as Christopher Davis, is wanted in connection to the shooting and remains on the run.

Houston Mayor John Whitmire and Houston Police Chief J. Noe Diaz said Brazoria County Sheriff’s Deputy Jesus Jesse Vargas was killed after being shot in the head while serving a warrant on a repeat offender.

The incident happened in the parking lot of a Dollar General on Stella Road near the 610 South Loop at about 11:30 a.m.

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Houston police are searching for Robert Lee Davis in connection to a shooting that killed a deputy serving a warrant. (Houston Police)

Vargas and his partner were serving a warrant on the offender in the parking lot, and when they approached the fugitive’s vehicle, he reportedly opened fire and fled the scene.

Vargas was working as a member of the U.S. Marshal’s Gulf Coast Violent Offenders Task Force at the time of the shooting, according to authorities.

Officials said Vargas was shot in the head.

Vargas was taken to Ben Taub Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Vargas was a 17-year veteran of the force and leaves behind a wife and three children, authorities said.

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Houston police are searching for Robert Lee Davis after a deputy was shot in the head and killed. (Houston Police)

Harris County Constable Alan Rosen posted on X that his department is aiding in the search for the suspect.

“We are praying for the officer shot while serving a warrant this morning,” Rosen wrote. “Please keep this officer and his family in your prayers!!!! I have deputies attached to this task force who are out searching for the suspect with our other law enforcement partners!”

Davis was last seen wearing a blue Nike hoodie with white lettering, blue jeans, and blue sneakers.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Houston is assisting police in the search for Davis. 

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Anyone with information about his whereabouts is encouraged to contact the Houston Police Department of Houston Crime Stoppers.

Greg Wehner is a breaking news reporter for Fox News Digital.

Story tips and ideas can be sent to Greg.Wehner@Fox.com and on Twitter @GregWehner.

Related Topics

• Texas
• Crime
• Police and Law Enforcement
• US