BRAZORIA COUNTY, Texas — Brazoria County Sheriff Bo Stallman issued a public statement Wednesday addressing community concern after a recent officer-involved shooting resulted in the death of 18-year-old John Gabriel Mendoza Jr.
The statement comes after days of questions from residents seeking answers about the fatal shooting and the investigation surrounding it.
Stallman acknowledged the concern and emotion across the community, saying he understands why people are looking for more information.
“I know there are many questions surrounding the recent officer-involved shooting,” Stallman said in the statement.
The sheriff said the limited public comments from his office should not be seen as a lack of concern or urgency.
Sheriff Says Independent Investigation Was Requested
According to Stallman, he requested an independent investigation from the beginning.
The sheriff said the investigation is being conducted by the Texas Rangers and the Brazoria County Criminal District Attorney’s Office.
“One of my responsibilities as your Sheriff is to ensure that this investigation proceeds objectively and without interference,” Stallman said.
Stallman also said the Sheriff’s Office is committed to full cooperation with the investigation, regardless of the outcome.
The sheriff did not release additional details about the shooting, citing the ongoing investigation.
Community Questions Continue
The statement marks one of the first public responses from the sheriff following the fatal shooting, which has drawn concern and questions from residents across Brazoria County.
Many in the community have been asking for more information about what led up to the shooting, what evidence exists and when more details will be made public.
Stallman said he hears those concerns.
“This is a serious matter,” the sheriff said, adding that his office also wants answers.
Because the case remains under active investigation, Stallman said he is unable to comment on specific facts related to the incident.
Texas Rangers, District Attorney’s Office Reviewing Case
The Texas Rangers are often called to investigate officer-involved shootings in Texas to provide an outside review of what happened.
In this case, Stallman said both the Texas Rangers and the Brazoria County Criminal District Attorney’s Office are involved in the investigation.
The sheriff said his office’s role is to cooperate while allowing the outside investigation to move forward without interference.
No timeline was provided for when the investigation may be completed or when additional information may be released.
Sheriff Asks Community To Keep Family In Prayers
Stallman closed his statement by asking the public to keep the young man’s family, the community and everyone affected by the shooting in their prayers.
The sheriff described the shooting as a tragedy and said the community is grieving.
The case remains under investigation.
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