1 Dead After Officer-Involved Shooting in Quitman

Texas DPS investigating incident after Mineola police chase ends in crash and shooting

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

One person is dead after an officer-involved shooting in Quitman, Texas on Thursday. The incident began with a reported theft at a Walmart in Mineola, where police attempted to stop the suspect's vehicle. The suspect fled northbound on Highway 37 towards Quitman, leading to a chase that ended in a crash at the intersection of Highways 154 and 37. Officers fatally shot the suspect at the scene, and the Texas Rangers are now investigating the incident.

Why it matters

Officer-involved shootings are a sensitive and controversial issue, raising questions about use of force, police procedures, and public safety. This incident highlights the potential risks and consequences when police pursuits escalate to a deadly confrontation.

The details

According to authorities, Mineola Police Department responded to a call about a theft at the Walmart located at 135 NE Loop 564. Upon arrival, officers observed the suspect's vehicle attempting to leave the parking lot. The driver then fled northbound on Highway 37 towards Quitman, leading to a chase. The pursuit ended when the suspect's vehicle crashed at the intersection of Highway 154 and Highway 37. Officers then fatally shot the person involved, and the suspect was pronounced dead at the scene.

  • On Thursday, February 15, 2026, Mineola police responded to a theft call at Walmart.
  • The police chase began in Mineola and ended in a crash in Quitman.

The players

Mineola Police Department

The local police department that responded to the initial theft call and initiated the pursuit of the suspect.

Texas DPS

The Texas Department of Public Safety, which is now investigating the officer-involved shooting incident.

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What’s next

The Texas Rangers will continue their investigation into the officer-involved shooting, which will likely include reviewing body camera footage, interviewing witnesses, and determining whether the use of force was justified.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the complex and dangerous situations that can arise when police pursuits escalate, highlighting the need for continued scrutiny and improvement of law enforcement policies and procedures around use of force.