On the morning of August 11, 2024, at approximately 7:00 AM, Jack County Deputies were dispatched to a residence on FM 1191, north of Bryson , in response to reports of a suicidal individual. The subject, armed with a 9mm handgun, was located in the garage and had threatened to take his own life. Upon arrival, deputies assumed a defensive position and initiated communication with the subject.
Shortly after, deputies were informed that the individual had forced entry into the house and was holding his parents at gunpoint. Sheriff Hauger immediately requested additional support from Jack County Sheriff's Office, Wise County SWAT, a Texas Ranger, Jacksboro Police Department negotiator Erin McGuire, other Jacksboro PD officers, Jack County EMC Frank Heifner with his drone, and EMS/Fire services. Jack County Emergency Communications later received word that the parents had managed to reach a safe room, where they locked themselves inside and were secure.
A perimeter was established while awaiting the arrival of additional units. During this time, one of the perimeter deputies observed movement in the backyard, where the suspect was seen carrying what appeared to be an AR-style rifle. The perimeter was then tightened, confining the suspect to a barn outside the main residence. Upon the arrival of more support, law enforcement successfully rescued the parents from the house through the front entrance while the suspect remained contained.
Negotiator Erin McGuire initiated phone communication with the subject in an effort to de-escalate the situation. The individual repeatedly threatened to kill multiple officers before taking his own life. Wise County SWAT, in coordination with Sheriff Hauger, made the decision to deploy gas to compel the suspect to surrender. The combination of the gas and continued negotiation efforts eventually led to the peaceful surrender of the suspect after several hours.
The response involved multiple agencies working together, including Jack County Sheriff's Office, Jacksboro Police Department, Texas Highway Patrol, Texas Rangers, Wise County Sheriff's Office, Faith Community EMS, Jacksboro Fire, and EMC Frank Heifner. The collaboration of these units was instrumental in resolving the situation without further harm.
