On Wednesday, January 15, 2025, Deputy Jesus Vargas of the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office was tragically shot and killed while assisting the Gulf Coast Violent Offenders Task Force in serving an aggravated assault warrant. The shooting occurred in the 9300 block of Stella Link Road, near the I-610 South Loop in southwest Houston.
Officials say the task force was attempting to arrest Robert Lee Davis III, also known as Sean Christopher Davis, when the suspect opened fire on the deputies. Deputy Vargas, a 17-year veteran of the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office, was struck and later died from his injuries.
A Blue Alert was issued shortly after the shooting as authorities launched an extensive manhunt for Davis. According to police, Davis was wearing a blue hoodie with a Nike logo, blue jeans, and blue sneakers at the time of the incident. He was last seen fleeing the scene in an unknown direction.
The Houston Police Department and local law enforcement agencies are urging the public not to approach Davis if they see him, but to immediately call 911. Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts is asked to contact the Houston Police Department at 713-308-3600.
In a heartfelt statement, the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office mourned the loss of Deputy Vargas. They described him as a respected and dedicated officer, known for his integrity, compassion, and tireless commitment to the community. “Deputy Vargas was more than just a team member—he was a friend, mentor, and inspiration to everyone who knew him,” the department said. “His professionalism and kind nature left a lasting impact on our office and the residents he served.”
The sheriff’s office extended their condolences to Deputy Vargas’s family, friends, and colleagues, and thanked the Houston Police Department for their continued pursuit of the suspect. Memorial and remembrance services for Deputy Vargas will be announced in the coming days.
