Deputy Slain in Ambush After Pizza Shop Altercation
Houston is reeling after Ronnie Palmer was charged with capital murder following the fatal shooting of Deputy Fernando Esqueda. The tragedy struck late Wednesday night after a heated incident at a Little Caesars pizza shop turned deadly, Harris County officials revealed.
Pizza Dispute Sparks Violent Crime Spree
The nightmare began just after 10pm on Wallisville Road when Palmer, disgruntled over a wrong pizza order, verbally attacked and pistol-whipped an employee before fleeing. The employee managed to give police a detailed description of Palmer’s getaway car – including make, colour, and licence plate.
Elite Deputy Ambushed and Shot Multiple Times
Deputy Esqueda, a five-year veteran and member of the violent persons task force, spotted Palmer’s vehicle shortly after the assault. While reporting the sighting, he was suddenly ambushed and gunned down in cold blood. Fellow detectives rushed him to hospital, but the brave cop died almost instantly, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez confirmed.
“What happened is senseless,” Sheriff Gonzalez said. “Deputy Esqueda was a dedicated officer with so much promise unfulfilled. He was going after the worst of the worst.”
Suspect Cuffed and Facing Multiple Charges
Ronnie Palmer, previously named a person of interest, is now in custody charged with capital murder and aggravated assault over the Little Caesars attack. Authorities are probing deeper to see if others were involved in the violent spree.
Community Mourns Fallen Hero
The entire Harris County mourns the loss of Deputy Esqueda, a devoted public servant whose courage cost him his life. Law enforcement vows justice and continues their pursuit to hold all responsible to account.
