December 15, 2014 - Houston police are investigating the shooting of a male suspect at 16400 Buffalo Speedway about 10 p.m. last Friday (Dec. 12).

The male, Michael Paul Walker (b/m, 38), was transported to Ben Taub General Hospital where he remains in stable condition. Walker is charged with possession of a controlled substance in the 228th State District Court. A photo of Walker is not available at this time.

Officers J. Pritchett and M. Montano, who discharged their duty weapons in the incident, were not injured. Officer Pritchett was sworn in as an officer in September 2009 and Officer Montano was sworn in as an officer in March 2009. Both are assigned to the Southwest Patrol Division.

HPD Homicide Division Officers C. Hogue, T. Colbert and R. Klementich reported:

The two officers were in a marked patrol vehicle when they attempted to initiate a traffic stop. During the traffic stop, the suspect ignored repeated verbal commands from the officers to show his hands and instead reached under the car seat. Believing the suspect was reaching for a weapon and fearing for his safety and that of his partner, one officer discharged his duty weapon, striking the suspect. The suspect then exited the vehicle and continued to ignore the officers' instructions to show his hands. Instead, he made threatening movements and the other officer discharged his duty weapon, fearing for his and his partner's safety. Both the driver and the passenger were subsequently found to be under the influence of narcotics. Paramedics transported the suspect to the hospital. A weapon was not found in his possession.

As is customary when an officer discharges a weapon in the city limits and strikes a suspect, this incident is being investigated by the HPD Homicide and Internal Affairs Divisions, as well as the Harris County District Attorney's Office.

KJS/JFC 12-15-14
Inc. #158181414