HOUSTON – A 41-year-old barber and father of three died following a police chase that ended in shooting outside an elementary school, authorities said.
What started as suspected traffic violation turned tragic for Frank “Trey” Shephard, who was fatally shot by police officers in northeast Harris County.
According to a Harris County Sheriff’s Office spokesman, the chase began about 10:40 a.m. in the Crosstimbers area of US-59. Houston Police tried to pull over the driver of a blue Chrysler 300 due to “suspicious activity,” including two unsafe lane changes. As they approached the car, the driver fled.
A chase ensued until the car was cornered. Deputy Thomas Gilliland with the Harris County Sheriff’s Department said poilce officers told the suspect to show his hands.
As the police approached Shephard’s car, he allegedly reached back into his vehicle, Gilliland said.
The two Houston police officers opened fire multiple times, killing Shepard.
Gilliland said the police officers suspected that Shepard was reaching for a weapon. No weapon was found in the car.
Sources said Shephard called 911 during the chase and told a dispatcher that he will harm the child who was with him should the police continue pursuing him.