A Harris County Pct. 1 deputy constable, identified as Sheila Jones, was wounded in a shootout that erupted near the Harris County Family Law Center in Downtown Houston, authorities reported. The incident took place Monday just after 12:30 p.m. on Congress Street, as the deputy encountered an armed suspect while working security at the law center. According to Click2Houston, the suspect, Parnell Bland, 34, exchanged gunfire with Jones and other deputies, resulting in both parties being injured.
The chase began after Bland was observed walking toward the building. Jones, a seasoned law enforcement veteran with over three decades of service and an army background, was hit during the exchange. Her son, also part of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, must face the unique pain of witnessing a family member in the line of duty under fire. A witness within the courtroom provided an account of hearing 15-20 shots during the tense situation, as detailed in KHOU.
Deputy Jones was promptly airlifted to Memorial Hermann Medical Center for medical attention and is currently reported to be in stable condition. Pct. 1 Constable Alan Rosen, returning from Austin after the incident, met with Jones in the hospital where she expressed being in "good spirits" despite the ordeal. "I’m just thankful she is ok and wasn’t more seriously injured," Rosen told Click2Houston.
Authorities affirmed that the deputy's bullet-proof vest played a crucial role in mitigating her injuries, as the projectile struck her lower left side without penetration. The suspect was also transported for medical care to St. Joseph's Hospital where he was listed as stable despite multiple gunshot wounds. According to Click2Houston, Bland has a history of felony convictions and was out on bond for a misdemeanor when he engaged officers. Moreover, Constable Rosen says the suspect carried a 9mm and a .25-caliber pistol.
In the midst of chaos and potential calamity, Deputy Jones' response may very well have prevented further harm. This sentiment was echoed by Harris County District Attorney Sean Teare, who said, "She’s a hero and should be celebrated as such," in a statement acquired by Click2Houston. The investigation into this harrowing event is ongoing with the Houston Police Department at the helm and charges including aggravated assault on a peace officer expected to be levied against Bland.
