Texas authorities have captured Ronald Palmer Jr., a person of interest in the ambush murder of Deputy Fernando Esqueda, a Houston-area deputy. Deputy Esqueda, a five-year veteran of the force, was tragically killed while searching for a suspect who had earlier pistol-whipped a worker at a Little Caesars pizzeria in East Harris County.
Incident Overview
The incident began with an aggravated assault at a Little Caesars on Wallisville Road. Palmer allegedly became agitated over an incorrect order and attacked the pizzeria’s clerk, first verbally assaulting and then pistol-whipping the employee before fleeing the scene. Authorities responded to the incident and began searching for the suspect.
Ambush and Capture
Deputy Esqueda was in pursuit of the suspect vehicle when he was ambushed and fatally shot. The young deputy, who was passionate about his role in law enforcement, was found with multiple gunshot wounds in his patrol car. He was rushed to Lyndon B. Johnson Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Following an intensive manhunt, Ronald Palmer Jr. was taken into custody but has not yet been formally charged. The investigation is ongoing, and police are looking into whether other individuals were involved in the incident.
Community Mourning
The community is mourning the loss of Deputy Esqueda. Sheriff Ed Gonzalez expressed profound sadness over the deputy’s death, highlighting his dedication and love for his job. None of us are ever prepared for such an untimely death, and our members need your prayers and support. Our thoughts are with his family as they come to terms with this horrible news,” Sheriff Gonzalez said.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding both the ambush and the initial aggravated assault at Little Caesars. They are working to determine if Palmer had any accomplices and to gather more details about the events leading up to Deputy Esqueda’s death.
The capture of Ronald Palmer Jr. brings a significant development in the case, but the community remains shaken by the loss of a dedicated officer.
