By Joanna Putman
Police1
HARRIS COUNTY, Texas — A second man has been arrested and charged with capital murder in the shooting death of Deputy Fernando Esqueda, KHOU reported.
The second suspect, a 26-year-old man, has been booked into the Harris County Jail, according to the report.
The first suspect, Ronnie Palmer, was arrested following a manhunt. Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez stated that on July 11, Esqueda was searching for Palmer after Palmer reportedly assaulted a pizza shop worker. During this search, Esqueda was ambushed.
A witness reported hearing two different guns, and investigators found 41 shell casings from two different types of firearms at the scene, according to the report. The second suspect has also been charged with tampering with evidence.
Prosecutors stated that after the shooting, Palmer gave the second suspect a pistol and a mini Draco firearm, instructing him to dispose of them, according to the report. A witness confirmed that the second suspect disposed of the firearms in a black trash bag, describing them as “hot.”
Deputy Esqueda, 28, was a five-year veteran of the sheriff’s office and a member of HCSO’s Violent Person Task Force, which targets child rapists, homicide suspects and other violent offenders.
“He was dedicated to protecting and serving the residents of Harris County,” Gonzalez said. “We pray with Deputy Esqueda’s family, friends, and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time. Deputy Esqueda’s commitment to duty and his sacrifice will always be remembered.”