WASHINGTON CO. AUTHORITIES CONTINUE SEARCH FOR AT-LARGE SUBJECT

  

Update @ 4:20 p.m.: The search continues for a man who authorities say fled from a traffic stop this (Friday) morning in Brenham. 

DPS reports the subject, identified as a Hispanic male, ran from a traffic stop on Highway 290 at the overpass at Blue Bell Road around 7:45 a.m.

DPS Sergeant Justin Ruiz said the traffic stop was for the vehicle in question not having a front license plate.  The trooper at the scene performed roadside investigation and, after identifying the driver and passenger, had them both exit the vehicle.  That is when, according to Sgt. Ruiz, the passenger fled the scene on foot.  The driver remained on site.

Per Sgt. Ruiz, a search of the vehicle resulted in investigators finding an empty gun case, leading them to believe the suspect may have had a weapon.  However, the weapon was later located inside the vehicle. 

The driver of the vehicle, 28-year-old Alexander Avalos of Houston, was taken into custody for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon. 

Because of the proximity to schools, Brenham ISD placed the Krause Elementary School, Brenham Middle School and Brenham Junior High School campuses into a “secure” state, meaning all students remained inside the building and no one was allowed in or out.  The schools later resumed normal operations.  Classes released early today for the holiday break. 

DPS, the Brenham Police Department and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office continue to search for the at-large subject.  Anyone who sees him is told to not approach and to notify law enforcement immediately.

Update @ 11:20 a.m.: Brenham ISD has issued a follow-up statement announcing it is resuming regular schedules and procedures. The statement can be read below:

Through the advice of Brenham PD we will resume our regular schedule and procedures. We would like to thank the Brenham PD for their diligence in keeping our students, staff, and community safe.

Authorities continue to search for the subject at-large.

Original Story @ 11:10 a.m.: Several Brenham ISD campuses have gone into a “secure” state as authorities are searching this (Friday) morning for a subject at large.

According to a post on the Washington County E-911 Facebook page, the person in question is a Hispanic male on foot wearing all black.  According to Brenham Police Captain Lloyd Powell, the subject fled from a DPS traffic stop. 

Brenham ISD Communications Coordinator Brooke Trahan says the Krause Elementary School, Brenham Middle School and Brenham Junior High School campuses have gone into a “secure” state, meaning students are staying indoors and no one is being allowed in or out.  At this time, early dismissals will proceed as scheduled.

The full statement from Brenham ISD can be read below:

Brenham PD is working on a case that is not associated with any of our campuses other than the proximity to a few of our campuses. However, in an abundance of caution, we feel the Brenham PD situation necessitates a few of BISD campuses go into a “secure” state: KES, BMS, BJHS. A secure state means all students remain inside the building. We continue to conduct class but are not allowing anyone in or out of the building. All students and staff are safe. At this time dismissal will proceed as scheduled.

Anyone who sees the subject is told to not approach and to notify law enforcement immediately.

KWHI is attempting to gain more information.