Officer killed, shootout lasts minutes, child rescued in under 12 minutes

• Officer Christopher Moreno returned fire

• Information will be sent out soon regarding the officer for HPD

• No relation between Officer Moreno and the individual mentioned

Law enforcement officers gather as the search for escaped convict Danelo Cavalcante continues Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2023, in Pottstown, Pa. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

AP

On Tuesday, a tragic incident unfolded at a Houston-area business when a female suspect entered the building and gunfire erupted shortly after. The Houston Police Department (HPD) spokesperson, Chief Troy Finner, provided some key details surrounding the incident during a press conference.

According to Chief Finner, the suspect has been identified as Christopher Moreno, an officer with the Houston Police Department. Details regarding the motive or any relation between Christopher Moreno and the victim, whose identity has not been released, are still under investigation.

The shooting occurred when the suspect entered the building at approximately 1:53 PM. Within minutes, gunfire broke out, initiating a harrowing exchange of bullets. Chief Finner confirmed that the victim was declared dead by HPD at 1:53:27 PM.

The intense gun battle lasted only a few minutes, with officers engaging the suspect in a tactical response. The brave officers swiftly applied their training, communicating and coordinating their approach to neutralize the threat. During the exchange, the suspect was wounded, and tragically, the victim lost her life.

Amid the chaos, officers acted heroically to ensure the safety of all those present. One officer moved quickly to protect a seven-year-old child, pulling them to safety. The entire series of events, from the suspect entering the building to the officers securing the scene, unfolded in less than 12 minutes.

The HPD and other law enforcement agencies are working diligently to establish a comprehensive timeline of the incident. Chief Finner assured the public that the exact sequence of events would be made available promptly.

While details regarding the circumstances leading up to the shooting remain scarce, Chief Finner pledged transparency and confirmed that more information, including the officer's background and any potential connections, would be shared as the investigation progresses.

As authorities piece together the facts surrounding this tragic incident, the community is left grappling with the senseless loss of life and the profound impact this event has had on the victims, their families, and the Houston community as a whole. As always, the HPD is committed to providing a comprehensive investigation to ensure justice is served and to prevent similar incidents in the future.

In the coming days, the HPD will undoubtedly continue its efforts to shed light on this tragedy. Their priority is to provide answers and support to those affected while reaffirming their commitment to public safety.