Suspect Shot by HPD Officer Charged with Aggravated Assault on Public Servant

HOUSTON, TX — Charges have been filed against a 24-year-old man who was shot by a Houston police officer during a traffic stop in north Houston early Sunday, January 11th.

Sergio Almaza has been charged with aggravated assault against a public servant in the 248th Criminal District Court. Almaza remains hospitalized following the incident. Authorities released a 2025 booking photo in connection with the case.

The shooting occurred around 1:40 a.m. in the 4700 block of Tidwell Road.

According to the Houston Police Department, officers initiated a traffic stop after observing a traffic violation. The driver, later identified as Almaza, was unable to provide valid identification and was asked to step out of the vehicle. Officers were able to confirm his identity and discovered he had outstanding warrants, including a felony warrant.

As officers attempted to take Almaza into custody, a struggle ensued. During the altercation, one officer deployed a Taser. Police said Almaza continued resisting after being tased, at which point HPD Officer R. Gutierrez discharged his duty weapon, striking him.

Almaza was transported by Houston Fire Department paramedics to an area hospital in critical condition.

Officer Gutierrez, who is assigned to the Northeast Patrol Division and was sworn in January 2024, was not injured.

As is standard procedure in officer-involved shootings, the incident is being investigated by the HPD Homicide Division’s Special Investigations Unit, Internal Affairs Division, and the Harris County District Attorney’s Office.