Introduction to the Incident
A female deputy constable with Harris County Pct. 1 was shot during a shootout with an armed man near the Harris County Family Law Center in Downtown Houston. The shooting was reported on Monday just after 12:30 p.m. near 1115 Congress Street.
The Injured Deputy Constable
The injured deputy constable has been identified as Sheila Jones. She’s been in law enforcement for over 30 years and is an army veteran. Jones’ son also works for the Harris County Sheriff’s Office. Jones was working as security at the Family Law Center when the armed suspect was seen walking toward the building.
The Suspect
The suspect was identified as Parnell Bland, 34, according to law enforcement sources. Officials said four Pct. 1 deputies, including Jones, chased Bland across San Jacinto and down Congress. Once deputies made contact with Bland, a shootout happened after he fired at them. Jones was struck by a bullet during the shootout and responding officers shot the suspect.
Aftermath of the Shooting
She was taken to a Memorial Hermann Medical Center by helicopter. Pct. 1 Constable Alan Rosen confirmed that the deputy is in “stable condition with a gunshot wound.” Constable Rosen was in Austin at the time of the shooting, but returned to Houston and went to the hospital to meet with Jones. After meeting with her, Rosen said she was in “good spirits” and was saved from internal injuries by her bullet-proof vest.
Details of the Shooting
Rosen pointed on his body where Jones was hit by a bullet, in her lower left side area. Rosen said Jones said she felt heat and pain in the area she believed she was shot. The bullet did not penetrate her vest. “I’m just thankful she is ok and wasn’t more seriously injured,” Rosen said. Harris County District Attorney Sean Teare praised Jones, saying she prevented a mass-casualty event. “She’s a hero and should be celebrated as such,” Teare said.
The Suspect’s Condition and Charges
The suspect was also taken by a patrol unit to St. Joseph’s Hospital where his condition was described as stable. He was shot multiple times and will require several surgeries, but authorities believe he will survive his injuries. The Harris County District Courts confirmed that the shooter is “no longer a threat to the public.” Bland will be charged with aggravated assault on a peace officer. Sean Teare says additional aggravated assault on a peace officer charges as well as felon in possession of a firearm charges will likely be added.
Background of the Suspect
According to records, Bland has six felony convictions and was currently out on bond for a misdemeanor trespassing arrest on April 15 when the shooting happened. At the time of a previous robbery arrest in 2018, Bland was documented as being homeless. Constable Rosen says the suspect had a 9mm and a 25-caliber pistol.
Witness Account and Investigation
KPRC 2 obtained a video showing a man, believed to be the suspect, being carried off on a stretcher after the shooting, appearing to be shouting in pain as he was carted away. A witness who was inside the courtroom recounted the moments shots rang out. The Administrative Office for the Harris County District Courts provided a statement confirming the incident and urging the public to avoid the courthouse district until further notice.
Conclusion
The incident highlights the bravery and quick response of law enforcement officers, particularly Deputy Constable Sheila Jones, who risked her life to protect others. The community is grateful for her service and wishes her a speedy recovery. The investigation is ongoing, and the suspect will face charges for his actions. The incident serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers every day and the importance of supporting and appreciating their service.
