DPS: SUSPECT IN BURLESON CO. STANDOFF DEAD

  

Update @ 6:51 a.m. Thursday: Family members of John Pollock say his surgery Wednesday afternoon went well.  They say the damage to his jaw will require a long healing process, but they are confident he will fully heal in time.

Original Story @ 2:51 p.m. Wednesday: DPS has confirmed the suspect who barricaded himself inside a home in Burleson County after shooting a Chief Deputy and a DPS Trooper was killed during an 8-hour standoff.

DPS says 41-year-old James Matalice Smith of Somerville shot Chief Deputy John Pollock around 6:45 p.m. Tuesday as he was attempting to serve an arrest warrant at Smith’s home off of FM 60 near County Road 230, west of Snook.  Pollock was shot in the chin and jaw area of his face.

A standoff ensued until approximately 3 a.m. Wednesday morning, when Smith exited his home under what law enforcement officials believed to be a surrender.  As they attempted to take Smith into custody, DPS says he then shot one of the Troopers in the arm.  Law enforcement returned fire, striking Smith.

Smith was treated by Burleson County EMS at the scene for life-threatening injuries, but was later pronounced dead at the scene.

Pollock and the Trooper were transported to CHI St. Joseph Health Regional Hospital in Bryan, where they remain in stable condition.  According to family members, Pollock was scheduled to have surgery Wednesday afternoon.

A criminal investigation is still active, and drivers are asked to avoid the area if possible.