A high-speed pursuit that began in Belton ended in a dramatic crash at the Killeen Mall on Saturday, December 21, 2024, leaving five people injured and the male suspect deceased.
According to Sgt. Washko with the Department of Public Safety (DPS), the incident began with a report of an erratic driver in a black pickup truck, possibly intoxicated, in Temple. A DPS Trooper located the vehicle traveling westbound on I-14, initiating a pursuit.
The chase escalated as the suspect drove through the south entrance of JCPenney at the Killeen Mall, striking multiple individuals. Five people were injured in the incident, with four sustaining serious injuries and one with minor injuries. All victims were transported to local hospitals for treatment. The age range of the victims is reported to be from a small child to a 75-year-old.
DPS troopers, Killeen officers and three off-duty officers fired on the suspect to neutralize the threat inside the mall. He was pronounced deceased at the scene. His identity has not yet been released.
Authorities have clarified that this was not an active shooter situation. The Texas Rangers will lead the investigation, with DPS serving as the primary agency. Further details are expected as the investigation progresses.
