A Wednesday night standoff left seven San Antonio police officers injured. Six have been discharged from the hospital, while one remains hospitalized but is expected to recover.
Events Leading to the Shooting
The incident began around 8:30 p.m. when police responded to a crisis call involving an individual in distress. Upon their arrival, 46-year-old Brandon Scott Poulos opened fire on the officers, injuring seven before barricading himself inside an apartment.
The standoff continued for several hours before police found Poulos deceased inside. Investigators are working to determine whether his death was self-inflicted or caused during the exchange with officers.
The San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) expressed gratitude for the officers’ bravery, stating, “Their dedication to serving and protecting our community is deeply appreciated.”
Suspect’s Troubled History
Poulos, a Navy veteran, had been arrested three times in the days leading up to the shooting. The charges included assault and driving while intoxicated.
According to reports, Poulos was involved in a domestic dispute where he attacked two elderly individuals and a 44-year-old woman. He allegedly dragged the woman by her hair and struck an 83-year-old man who tried to intervene. Poulos fled the scene but was arrested shortly after crashing his car nearby.
He was charged with multiple offenses, including assault causing bodily harm to elderly individuals and a second DUI offense. Despite these charges, Poulos was released on bond with conditions, including avoiding contact with victims and undergoing a mental health evaluation.
Poulos’ Military Background
Poulos served in the U.S. Navy for a decade before leaving in 2008. He was stationed in various locations, including New Jersey, California, and Illinois. His service earned him several distinctions, such as the National Defense Service Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal.
Officer Recovery and Community Response
Six of the seven officers injured during the standoff have been released to recover at home. The seventh remains hospitalized but is expected to make a full recovery.
The SAPD has asked the community to keep the officers and their families in their thoughts and prayers. This incident serves as a reminder of the risks officers face daily and the importance of addressing mental health crises to prevent similar tragedies.
