UPDATE: CNN named the fallen officer as 60-year-old Houston Police Sgt. Steve Perez, who had worked as a cop for 34 years. Read more about him here.
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A Houston police officer reportedly drowned inside of his patrol car on Sunday, becoming the 15th confirmed fatality amid ongoing chaos and flooding following Hurricane Harvey.
The officer, a veteran with more than 30 years in the Houston Police Department, was on his way to work when he became entrapped in high water on I-45 and Hardy Toll Road, The Houston Chronicle reported.
https://twitter.com/JMNR/status/902554826189492226
“He was trying different routes, and took a wrong turn,” an unnamed high-ranking police official told the outlet.
The name of the victim as well as sources confirming his death were not identified, as the family has not yet been notified.
Please pray for the officer’s loved ones.
This is a breaking news story. Stay tuned for updates.