Manhunt Underway After Harris County Deputy Killed in Ambush

Source: General / Radio One

Local authorities are searching for the man responsible for the brutal murder of Deputy Fernando Esquera . According to reports, it all started after an individual got into a dispute over an incorrect order at Little Caesars around 10pm Wednesday (July 10). The suspect, identified as 44-year-old Ronnie Palmer , allegedly verbally assaulted then pistol-whipped the employee before fleeing in a vehicle.

Source: Harris County Deputy Fernando Esqueda / HCSO

Deputy Esquera was part of an elite task force designed capture violent offenders. RELATED: The Aftermath of Hurricane Beryl in the Houston Area RELATED: City to End Houston Bike Share Program Esquera was fatally ambushed while making a call to say he had spotted the Palmer’s vehicle. From Fox26 :

The employee was able to give the deputies a description of the vehicle and the license plate, and the deputies put out a general broadcast with the information. Officials say the call went out to numerous detectives and undercover deputies who have been working 12-hour shifts and conducting proactive patrols at night in the wake of Hurricane Beryl.

Upon arriving at the scene, authorities discovered that Deputy Esquera had been struck by gunfire multiple times. He was removed from his undercover vehicle and rushed to an area hospital, but died from his injuries.

Source: Suspect Ronnie Palmer / HCSO

The sheriff’s office confirmed that there is an ongoing manhunt for Palmer and warned the public not to aid or assist him, as those who do could face serious consequences.