GARLAND, TX- In what was described as a “surreal” shootout that covered nearly two hours and three crime scenes, the suspect was killed, and a Garland police officer was wounded, Garland’s police chief said at an afternoon news conference, The Dallas Morning News reported.
Officers were dispatched to multiple 911 calls shortly after midnight on West Wanda Dr. in the city on a report of a man firing weapons in the street.
Responding officers were immediately besieged by a “barrage” of gunfire that was so rapid and intense they were unable to either return fire or even exit their police cruisers. During the fusillade of bullets, one of the gunman’s bullets went through one of the patrol vehicles, passing through one of the officer's legs and striking the other, Chief Jeff Bryan told reporters.
An update on the officer involved shooting in Garland. @NBCDFW
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The wounded officer, who was not identified, was taken to a local hospital where he was treated for his wounds. His condition was listed as stable, and he is expected to recover fully.
The suspect was identified as Bernardo Mares, 24, who fled the initial crime scene in a white pickup truck, the chief said.
Additional units followed the truck to an adjacent block, where Mares could conceal himself behind parked cars. He again opened fire on responding officers, who, this time, were able to return fire.
Mares then fled between houses until he reached a home where he “had family connections.” Officers evacuated the home shortly before Mares “charged from the residence” and pointed an object, believed to be a magazine from a firearm, at police in a “shooter stance.”
Multiple officers fired their weapons simultaneously, striking Mares several times. He was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead, Bryan said.
“At this time, we do not yet understand what prompted Mr. Mares to engage in these shootings in his attempt to kill multiple police officers,” Chief Bryan said. “But according to witnesses, he indicated that he was not going to jail and that he was going to force officers to kill him.”
Bryan said no other injuries were reported, and bullets struck a total of five patrol cars. He added that he estimated some 100 rounds were fired throughout the shootout.
“We ask that you please keep the injured officer and Mr. Mares’ family in your prayers as they try to make sense of this incident,” Bryan continued.
Eight Garland police officers have been placed on administrative duties, as is customary in cases involving the use of deadly force. Bryan said there will be “multiple” investigations, including one by the district attorney’s office.
