Suspect Charged After Harris County Deputy Shot During Apartment Complex Gunfire Incident

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas — A man accused of shooting a Harris County deputy during a confrontation at an apartment complex has been released from the hospital and booked into jail on a first-degree felony charge, authorities announced.

According to Constable Mark Herman’s Office, deputies responded on June 19, 2026, to the 15900 block of Woodland Hills Drive after receiving reports of a man discharging a rifle within an apartment complex.

When deputies arrived, they made contact with the armed suspect. During the encounter, the suspect allegedly opened fire, striking Deputy Dante Zepeda.

Law enforcement immediately launched a large-scale search involving patrol deputies, K-9 teams, and specialized units in an effort to locate the suspect.

Authorities ultimately apprehended the suspect, identified as 38-year-old Edgar Villegas. During the arrest, Villegas sustained injuries from a police K-9 bite and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

After being released from the hospital, Villegas was booked into the Harris County Jail.

He is charged with Aggravated Assault of a Public Servant, a first-degree felony. Court records show his bond has been set at $250,000 by the 248th District Court.

Deputy Zepeda was wounded during the incident and continues to recover from his injuries.

“Our deputies put their lives on the line every day to protect this community,” Constable Mark Herman said. “Violence against law enforcement will not be tolerated, and we will continue working tirelessly to ensure those responsible are held accountable.”

Authorities continue to ask the public to keep Deputy Zepeda, his family, and members of Constable Mark Herman’s Office in their thoughts as he recovers.