A San Benito, Texas, police officer was tragically killed while pursuing two men who fled a traffic stop and engaged in a high-speed chase along the southern border of the state. The officer, identified as Lt. Milton Resendez, was struck by a bullet that went through the door of his patrol car, hitting him below his body armor. Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, Lt. Resendez was pronounced dead.
The incident began when law enforcement officials stopped a truck speeding on the beach in South Padre Island. As the officer questioned the driver, a passenger started the truck and the driver jumped into the bed before speeding off. During the pursuit, two women and two small children exited the vehicle and were detained, while the two men, identified as 18-year-old Rogelio Martinez Jr. of Brownsville and 23-year-old Rodrigo Axel Espinosa Valdez of Mexico, remained in the truck.
The chase continued into Brownsville, where gunfire was exchanged between the suspects and officers before the truck was lost sight of. Hours later, the suspects were spotted in an SUV in Brownsville, sparking another pursuit that ultimately led to San Benito. It was during this chase that Lt. Resendez was shot. The suspects were eventually arrested after attempting to flee from the disabled SUV.
Cameron County District Attorney Luis Saenz announced that both Martinez and Valdez face multiple charges, including capital murder, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, and evading arrest. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, led by the Texas Rangers.
Lt. Resendez, a 30-year veteran police officer, was widely respected by his colleagues and community. San Benito Police Department Chief Mario Perea described him as someone who cared about everyone and got along with everyone. The loss of Lt. Resendez has deeply affected the police department, as he was considered part of their family.
Former Rep. Mayra Nohemi Flores, R-Tex., expressed her outrage on social media, calling the killing of a Texas police officer while on duty “utterly disgusting.” She emphasized the real danger of border-related violence and the constant risk American lives face.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott also mourned the loss of Lt. Resendez, stating that hearts across Texas grieve with the family and loved ones of the fallen officer.
This tragic incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement officials at the southern border. The investigation will continue to uncover the details surrounding Lt. Resendez’s death and provide justice for his family and colleagues.
