ROCKWALL, Texas — A suspect has died following a chase and shootout with deputies in Rockwall County, officials said.
On Wednesday, Nov. 1, the Collin County Sheriff's Office said deputies with the North Texas Sheriff's Criminal Interdiction Unit (NTXCIU) and agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) were conducting a joint operation. Officials said deputies from NTXCIU were attempting a traffic stop on Interstate 30 of an SUV driven by a suspect, 36-year-old Rudy Chavira.
NTXCIU said Chavira was suspected of carrying a "substantial quantity" of narcotics. When deputies tried to stop Chavira's vehicle, he fled and a pursuit began, officials said.
Just before 3:45 p.m., NTXCIU said that, as the chase continued on westbound I-30, approaching Dalrock Road, they encountered heavy traffic. That's when Chavira came to a stop, according to deputies. NTXCIU said that, as deputies approached Chavira's vehicle, he opened fire on them, prompting deputies to return fire.
In the shootout, Chavira was struck and was transported to a local hospital, where he later died from his injuries, officials said.
No deputies were injured, and there have been no reports of innocent bystanders injured in the shooting, according to both Rockwall and Collin County sheriff's offices.
WFAA's chopper flew over the scene as several law enforcement agencies arrived. Following the incident, Chavira's vehicle was searched, and about 12 kilos of cocaine was found inside, NTXCIU said.
Texas Rangers were called to the scene to investigate the incident, officials said. NTXCIU, Collin County and Rockwall County deputies are all cooperating with the ongoing investigation, according to statements from each.
In a press release, Collin County Sheriff Jim Skinner shared his thoughts about the bravery of the deputies involved.
"They stand on the frontlines, facing the tsunami of deadly drugs and ruthless criminals pouring into our neighborhoods form the open southern border," Skinner said. "Our deputies are committed to making whatever sacrifices are needed to safeguard the communities they serves, all while navigating the constant and inherent dangers of their mission. I am grateful for their selfishness."
Due to the incident, the westbound lanes on I-30 from Horizon Road to the Dalrock exit were closed for several hours Wednesday. The southbound lanes at Dalrock and Sunset Boulevard were also affected.
The investigation remain ongoing, and officials said no further details will be released at this time.