A violent confrontation in San Antonio left a police officer wounded early Sunday.
A Venezuelan national, Jorge Chacon-Gutierrez, engaged in a gunfire exchange with local police responding to a domestic incident, injuring a female officer.
According to Daily Mail, the shooting occurred around 3 a.m. when three officers responded to a disturbance at an apartment complex. On arrival, they faced unexpected gunfire from Chacon-Gutierrez, who was positioned with a rifle on his bed.
Immediate Response and Officer Details
The officers retreated tactically after returning fire to neutralize the threat. The injured officer, who has served for three years, was swiftly taken to the hospital. She underwent surgery the same morning and is currently in stable condition and expected to make a full recovery.
Identifying the assailant as Jorge Chacon-Gutierrez, a 25-year-old Venezuelan who crossed into the United States illegally last November, authorities are investigating further. Preliminary information revealed that he was released on a notice to appear before a judge in 2026.
Police Chief William McManus described the scene vividly to reporters. He highlighted the dangerous circumstances under which the officers had to operate.
Shooter's Fate and Investigation
Following the initial exchange of gunfire, a SWAT team re-entered the apartment. They discovered Chacon-Gutierrez deceased, although it was unclear whether his death was due to self-inflicted wounds or police action.
Congressman Tony Gonzales expressed his concerns online regarding the policies that allowed such individuals to remain at large in the community. His remarks pointed to broader systemic issues and the need for policy reassessment.
When officers went into the apartment, (the shooter) was lying in bed with a rifle by his side, and he started shooting at the officers," Police Chief William McManus told reporters. "The officers returned fire. They exited the apartment," added Police Chief William McManus.
SWAT officers later made entry into the apartment and "saw the suspect was deceased," stated Police Chief William McManus, who couldn't confirm if the wound was self-inflicted or a result of police fire.
Community and Official Reactions
The incident has stirred significant discussion about immigration policies and law enforcement's risks. This specific event underscores the unpredictable and perilous nature of policing, especially when confronting armed individuals with uncertain backgrounds.
"These are the consequences of failed catch & release policies," tweeted Texas Congressman Tony Gonzales. "I am thankful the injured SAPD officer is stable & I pray she makes a full recovery soon," said Congressman Tony Gonzales.
Conclusion
The turmoil early Sunday in San Antonio not only highlights the dangers law enforcement officers face daily but also ignites debates on immigration enforcement and public safety. A Venezuelan national engaged Texas police under harrowing conditions, leaving an officer wounded. As she recovers, the discussion undoubtedly turns to policy and the ever-present risks shouldered by those who protect and serve.
