Off-duty Dallas officer shoots at suspected vehicle thieves in Addison

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An off-duty Dallas police officer opened fire on a group of people he allegedly caught trying to steal his personal vehicle in Addison, Texas on Sunday afternoon. The suspects fled the scene in their own vehicle, and it is unknown if any of them were hit by the officer's gunfire. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the challenges and risks faced by law enforcement officers, even when they are off-duty, as well as the potential for escalation of violence when civilians attempt to commit crimes. It also raises questions about the appropriate use of force by police in confronting suspected criminal activity.

The details

According to the Addison Police Department, the off-duty Dallas officer saw a group of people trying to steal his vehicle in a parking lot on Belt Line Road around 2:15 p.m. on Sunday. The officer confronted the suspects, and during the encounter, he fired his weapon at the suspects' vehicle as they fled the scene.

• The incident occurred around 2:15 p.m. on Sunday, March 9, 2026.

What’s next

The Addison Police Department is continuing its investigation into the incident, including determining if any of the suspects were hit by the officer's gunfire.