Deputy Constable Harry Thielepape, 57, passed away from gunshot wounds

20 Feb 2008

Harris County Precinct 6 Deputy Constable Harry Thielepape, 57, died after injuries sustained from a month ago. Thielepape was shot after apprehending a wanted fugitive, Jesus Gilbert Reyna, 21, at the Chancellor Apartments at 311 Parramatta on 26 Jan 2008. Thielepape worked part time at the apartment building were he lived as a security officer.

Reyna was wanted for class C misdemeaners and Thielepape was in a squad that hunted parole violators.

Thielepape saw Reyna in a car and pulled him over. After confirming Reyna's identity Thielepape handcuffed Reyna and placed him in the backseat of Thielepape's off duty car. Reyna struggled with his handcuffs and somehow managed to move so that his hands were in the front of his body. When Thielepape opened the back seat car door to subdue Reyna, Reyna grabbed Thielepape's pistol and shot Thielepape multiple times in the chest. Thielepape was able to return fire with his backup weapon, killing Reyna.

Thielepape was rushed to the hospital where his heart stopped beating twice. His condition improved somewhat in the last month and he was able to breath on his own. Unfortunately, his wounds were to severe and he passed away.

Thielepape served his community with honor and dignity. He wanted his fellow Texans to feel safe, and he died preserving that purpose.

Precinct 6 officer's condition improves after shootout

Precinct 6 deputy constable dies from shooting injuries