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Surveillance video shows moments leading up to shooting death of Texas deputy

Brazoria County Deputy Jesus Vargas can be seen approaching the suspect vehicle’s passenger door just as it cracks open

HOUSTON —New surveillance video obtained by KPRC 2 Investigates provides a glimpse into the moments preceding the tragic shooting of Brazoria County Deputy Jesus Vargas.

Vargas, who was working with the U.S. Marshals Gulf Coast Violent Offenders Task Force, was fatally shot on Jan. 15 in the parking lot of a shopping center in southwest Houston.

The video shows Robert Lee Davis, the fugitive Vargas and his partner were attempting to apprehend, walking toward a brown truck, opening the passenger door and getting inside.

Moments later, a white law enforcement vehicle arrives, blocking the truck, as officers emerge with guns drawn. Vargas, positioned near the truck’s passenger side with his weapon ready, approaches just as the passenger door opens.

Vargas was shot in the head during the encounter, according to the report. He was rushed to a hospital, where he later died. Vargas, a 17-year veteran of the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office, was remembered by colleagues as a dedicated public servant known for his integrity and compassion, according to the report. He leaves behind a wife and three children.

Davis fled the scene but was apprehended hours later, hiding in a dumpster nearby. U.S. Marshals K-9 Rocky located Davis but was shot and injured during the confrontation, according to the report. An officer returned fire, striking and killing Davis.

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Joanna Putman is an Associate Editor and newswriter at Police1, where she has been covering law enforcement topics since August 2023. Based in Orlando, Florida, she holds a journalism degree from the University of Florida and spent two years working in nonprofit local newsrooms, gaining experience in community-focused reporting. Married to a law enforcement officer, she works hard to highlight the challenges and triumphs of those who serve and protect. Have a news tip? Email her at news@lexipol.com