Police shooting ends South Houston chase

10:20 AM CDT on Monday, September 28, 2009

By Kevin Reece / 11 News

HOUSTON—An 18-year-old car theft suspect was hospitalized Monday after officers said a bullet stopped his run from—and his run at—South Houston Police.

A South Houston officer tried to stop a car Sunday night after the license plates identified it as a vehicle stolen from Corpus Christi. Police said the driver would not pull over, and a short chase ensued.

Police said a second officer, racing to the call in the opposite direction, collided with the suspect’s car at the intersection of Spencer Highway and Allen Genoa.

Damage was extensive, and the officer’s air bag deployed.

But South Houston Police Chief Herb Gilbert said the officer emerged from his car and raised his gun at the suspect. Gilbert said the driver refused to stop and drove directly at the officer, who fired at least twice in self-defense.

One bullet hit the suspect in the shoulder. His willingness to continue the chase ended, and he was taken into custody, police said.

The suspect is identified only as an 18-year-old male. He was taken to Memorial Hermann in good condition.

The officer has been with South Houston Police for two years.