Suspect Arrested in Fatal Shooting of Houston-Area Sheriff's Deputy

A suspect was arrested for the fatal shooting of Houston-area Deputy Fernando Esqueda, who was also involved in a manhunt following an assault at a pizzeria. Esqueda was ambushed and killed after tracing the suspect's vehicle. The suspect, Ronald Palmer Jr., was charged with capital murder.

In a harrowing turn of events, a suspect has been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of Houston-area Sheriff's Deputy Fernando Esqueda. The deputy, 28, was tragically killed during a manhunt following an earlier assault at a local pizzeria, according to authorities.

Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez confirmed that Ronald Palmer Jr. was apprehended around 7 pm on Thursday. Initially charged with aggravated assault, Palmer now faces capital murder charges for the death of Deputy Esqueda. The deputy had located the suspect's vehicle early Thursday after receiving a description from the assaulted pizzeria clerk.

Upon finding the vehicle, Esqueda was ambushed and sustained multiple gunshots. Despite being rushed to the hospital, he was pronounced dead upon arrival. Esqueda, part of an elite task force focused on violent individuals, was highly regarded and had served with the sheriff's office for five years. He had been working long hours to provide security and prevent looting after Hurricane Beryl.

(With inputs from agencies.)