Buna Man Charged in Evadale Property Theft

Authorities say suspect stole thousands in tools and equipment from Evadale site.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

A 35-year-old Buna man has been arrested and charged with felony theft after authorities say he stole thousands of dollars worth of tools and equipment from a property in Evadale early Thursday morning. The Jasper County Sheriff's Office responded to the scene, obtained video footage, and later located the suspect and the vehicle at a residence.

Why it matters

Property crimes like theft can have a significant impact on local communities, causing financial losses and disrupting a sense of safety. This case highlights the importance of vigilant law enforcement and community cooperation in addressing such incidents.

The details

According to the Jasper County Sheriff's Office, the theft occurred around 3:30 a.m. on March 5, 2026, at a property located at 177 FM 2246 in Evadale. Deputies responded to the scene along with Constable Chad Ainsworth and obtained video footage showing the vehicle believed to be involved in the theft. Later that morning, around 8:45 a.m., Jasper County sheriff's deputies located the suspect, identified as Christopher Hand, 35, of Buna, and the vehicle at a residence on Doc Davis Drive in Cougar Country. Following a brief investigation, authorities determined that Hand had entered the Evadale property without the owner's consent and taken several items.

  • The theft occurred around 3:30 a.m. on March 5, 2026.
  • Deputies located the suspect and vehicle around 8:45 a.m. on March 5, 2026.

The players

Christopher Hand

A 35-year-old man from Buna, Texas, who was arrested and charged with felony theft in connection with the incident.

Jasper County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that responded to the scene, obtained video footage, and made the arrest.

Constable Chad Ainsworth

A local law enforcement official who responded to the scene along with the Jasper County Sheriff's Office.

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What they’re saying

“In a statement, Sheriff Chuck Havard praised law enforcement and the public for their role in the investigation.”

— Sheriff Chuck Havard, Jasper County Sheriff (12newsnow.com)

What’s next

The stolen property is in the process of being returned to the owner, and Hand is expected to be transported to the Jasper County Jail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of vigilant law enforcement and community cooperation in addressing property crimes, which can have a significant impact on local communities.