Brazoria County Deputy Jesus Vargas killed after being shot on Stella Link Road in southwest Houston

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — A Brazoria County deputy died after being shot by a suspect in southwest Houston on Wednesday.

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The shooting happened shortly before noon on Stella Link Road, just north of the South Loop.

The sheriff’s office said Deputy Jesus “Jesse” Vargas was taken to Ben Taub Hospital, where he died.

Sources confirmed with Eyewitness News that Vargas served the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office for 17 years. He is survived by his wife and three children.

Police say preliminary information indicates the suspect took off on foot. A manhunt is underway for the suspect, identified as Robert Lee Davis, and the public is asked to avoid the area if possible.

According to the Houston Police Department, Davis also goes by the name Sean Christopher Davis.

Shortly after authorities held a press conference, a “Blue Alert” was sent across the state to search for Davis. He is described as a black 56-year-old male, weighing 220 pounds and standing 5 feet 10 inches tall.

“This afternoon we lost a local hero,” said Mayor John Whitmire. “(Vargas) was trying to apprehend a repeat violent offender and he lost his life. The suspect shot (Vargas) as he approached him to serve the warrant.”

Records show Davis has a criminal history dating back to 1990, with the most recent being from December 2024 for aggravated sexual assault charges.

If you know anything about this case, authorities urge you to contact the Houston Police Department’s Homicide Squad at (713) 308-3600 or Crime Stoppers of Houston.

Tipsters must contact Crime Stoppers directly to remain anonymous and be considered for a cash payment by calling 713-222-TIPS (8477) and submitting a online tipsor through the Crime Stoppers mobile app.

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