February 25, 2011 - Charges have been filed against two suspects arrested in the shooting of a Houston police officer at 207 Buckboard about 8:25 a.m. on Thursday (Feb. 24).

Mario Sosa Nunez (H/m, DOB: 11-18-77) is charged with aggravated assault against a public servant in the 179th State District Court. Albelino Serrato Espinoza (H/m, DOB: 6-3-80) is charged with felon in possession of a weapon in the 179th State District Court. A photo of Espinoza is attached to this news release. No HPD photo of Nunez is currently available.

HPD Senior Police Officer N.E. Patel, assigned to the Narcotics Division and sworn in as an officer in February 1997, suffered gunshot wounds to his elbow and hip and was transported to Memorial Hermann Hospital in good condition. Officer Patel was released from the hospital today (Feb. 25).

HPD Homicide Division Sergeants C. Elliott, J. Wilson and Officer D. Gunter reported:

HPD Narcotics Division officers executing a search warrant at the above location forcibly entered the house at the above location when there was no response at the door. The officers verbally identified themselves as police officers and were all dressed in clearly marked police tactical gear. Upon entering the house, Nunez began firing at the officers and struck Officer Patel. At that time, other officers returned fire, striking Nunez in the arm. Nunez was transported to a local hospital where he was treated for his wound.

As is customary in HPD officer-involved shootings within the city limits, this case is being investigated by the HPD Homicide and Internal Affairs Divisions and the Harris County District Attorney’s Office.

KJS/JFC 2-25-11

Inc. #023788311