Man Accused of Killing Texas Deputy Charged with Capital Murder

HOUSTON, TX – The man accused of ambushing and killing a Harris County Sheriff's Deputy was taken into custody Thursday night. 

Deputy Fernando Esqueda, 28, was killed early Thursday morning in northeast Harris County. He was a five-year veteran of the sheriff’s office and a member of the Violent Person Task Force, which targets child rapists, homicide suspects, and other violent offenders.

Ronnie Palmer, the suspect in Esqueda's death, has been charged with capital murder. Authorities issued a Blue Alert for Palmer, which was discontinued after his arrest around 7 p.m. Thursday. Palmer was apprehended at a house on Ghita Lane. 

Law enforcement spent nearly 24 hours tracking tips that led them to the house on Ghita Lane. They believe Palmer had been there for about two hours before they arrived. Authorities set up a perimeter, and Palmer eventually called to announce he was ready to surrender.

Governor Greg Abbott previously announced a $10,000 reward for information leading to Palmer's arrest.