DEVELOPING: Two Texas DPS Troopers Shot, Suspect Dead

Two Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Troopers were shot and injured Tuesday afternoon in Odessa, Texas. They were assisting a Texas Ranger along with two other troopers. The group was executing multiple arrest warrants in the area.

Texas Lt. Governor Dan Patrick confirmed the shootings in a statement obtained by Breitbart Texas. “Today, in Odessa, Texas, four DPS officers were assisting a Texas Ranger in pursuit of a suspect; two officers were shot,” Lt. Gov. Patrick wrote. “Their condition is not known at this time. The suspect has been killed.”

Media reports in the area stated the troopers were transported to local hospitals and are listed in stable condition.

In response to an inquiry from Breitbart Texas, DPS Communications Officer Tom Vinger provided the following statement:

At approximately 2 p.m. this afternoon, DPS Texas Highway Patrol personnel were assisting Texas Rangers and the Ward County Sheriff’s Office in tracking an armed and wanted suspect in the Odessa area. The suspect was located at a convenience store at 42nd and Andrews Highway in Odessa. According to the preliminary investigation, there was an exchange of gunfire between the suspect and DPS personnel. A Texas Highway Patrol sergeant was shot in the leg and chest – a level of protection was provided by his body armor. A second Highway Patrol sergeant was struck in the arm. The suspect, who was wanted for aggravated assault out of Ward County, is deceased. The two injured sergeants were taken to Odessa Medical Center, and are undergoing treatment for their injuries. The Texas Rangers and Odessa Police Department are investigating this incident.”

“Once again we are reminded of the dangerous job our law enforcement officers face every day in Texas,” the Lt. Governor stated. “Please keep these two officers, their families and all men and women who serve us in your prayers.”

Breitbart Texas will provide additional information about this story as it develops.

Bob Price is a senior political news contributor for Breitbart Texas and a member of the original Breitbart Texas team. Follow him on Twitter @BobPriceBBTX and on Facebook.