Cop shot to death in Houston, 2nd wounded

A 41-year veteran of the Houston Police Department was killed after a domestic violence suspect shot him and another officer in an apartment complex Tuesday morning, authorities said.

The accused gunman and his teenage son were also struck during the shooting; both were expected to recover.

Sgt. Harold Preston, 65, who joined the city's police force in 1979, was shot in the head and spine. He was pronounced dead at a hospital, Police Chief Art Acevedo said.

“We lave lost a wonderful human being,” Acevedo told reporters at an emotional news conference outside the hospital.

The second officer, Courtney Waller, was hit in the arm and was expected to recover.

The shooting happened about an hour after police were called to investigate a domestic disturbance complaint against Elmer Manzano, 51. The man's estranged wife told police she had just moved out and wanted to get into the apartment to retrieve some of her belongings, but that Manzano refused to let her in, Acevedo said.

The suspect's 14-year-old son, who was with his mother while police tried to contact Manzano, eventually unlocked the door himself and saw that his father was holding a firearm, according to police. The boy immediately alerted the officers, but the gunman shot multiple rounds right away, the police chief said.

Manzano, who was hit in the abdomen, stayed inside but eventually surrendered. He was taken to a hospital for treatment. His son was also being treated after being struck during the shooting, though it's unclear who shot him. Authorities said Manzano will be charged with murder.

Local and state officials praised the fallen officer as a hero.

“This tragic loss is a grave reminder of the dangers our brave law enforcement officers face while keeping our communities safe,” Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said in a statement. “Cecilia and I ask our fellow Texans to join us in lifting up Sgt. Preston's family in prayer in their time of need. We also ask all Texans to pray for the speedy recovery of Houston Police Officer Courtney Waller who was shot while responding to the same incident and is recovering in the hospital.”