A Houston home invasion turned violent when a suspect opened fire, hitting a responding officer. The officer returned fire before the suspect who fired fled. All three suspects were later arrested, facing several serious charges.

HOUSTON, TX (2-minute read) — Houston police responded to an emergency call regarding a home invasion on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, at a residence located in the 7100 block of Alderney Drive. Officers arrived to find two suspects inside the home. As officers attempted to take 38-year-old Michael Perez into custody, another suspect, later identified as 35-year-old Raymond Perez, emerged from a back room and opened fire, striking Officer S. Durfee in the leg.

Despite being wounded, Officer Durfee managed to fire back at Raymond Perez, though Perez was not hit. After the brief exchange of gunfire, Raymond Perez fled through the back of the house, and a third suspect, 18-year-old Garcia Chavez, who had been waiting in a vehicle outside, also fled the scene.

Emergency medical personnel quickly arrived and transported Officer Durfee to Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center, where he was treated for his non-life-threatening injuries and later released. Officer Durfee, a member of the Northwest Patrol Division, has served with the Houston Police Department since January 2016.

The homeowner, alerting the officer of another suspect inside the house and their exact location, likely saved that officer’s life. If she had alerted the officer just a second later, it could have been a very different story.

Following the confrontation, Raymond Perez was found hiding just a block away from the scene and was arrested without further incident. Hours later, Chavez was tracked down by the HPD SWAT team in the 5800 block of Hollister Road and was also taken into custody.

Raymond Perez now faces multiple charges, including aggravated assault against a public servant, aggravated robbery with a deadly firearm, and unlawful possession of a firearm. His brother, Michael Perez, and the third suspect, Chavez, are both charged with aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon.

The swift response from law enforcement not only ensured that all three suspects were apprehended but also prevented further injury or loss of life. This case serves as a reminder of the inherent risks law enforcement officers face when responding to violent crimes.

Safety Tip: Understanding your state’s laws regarding the use of firearms, especially in self-defense or defense of others, is essential. Stay informed to ensure responsible and lawful firearm usage.