Houston Police Release Details and Video on Officer Shooting in the Houston Gardens Area

HOUSTON, TX — The Houston Police Department has released body worn camera video from an officer-involved shooting that occurred January 11, 2026 in the 4700 block of Tidwell Road in the Trinity/Houston Gardens area.

The incident happened around 1:40 a.m. when officers conducted a traffic stop for a violation. According to HPD, the male driver, later identified as 24-year-old Sergio Almaza, was unable to provide valid identification. Officers were able to confirm his identity and discovered he had outstanding warrants, including a felony warrant.

Police said that as officers attempted to take Almaza into custody, a struggle ensued. During the altercation, one officer deployed a Taser. Authorities say Almaza continued to resist, and 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. He was later charged with aggravated assault against a public servant in the 248th Criminal District Court. He remains hospitalized.

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

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

HPD officials say the release of the body camera footage is part of the department’s transparency policy. Further details will be provided as the investigation continues.