Spring man shoots suspected car thief in Texas

A man in Spring, Texas, has been charged after he chased a suspected car thief and shot him. The incident happened near Cypresswood Drive on Tuesday. The Harris County Constable Precinct 4 reported the arrest, and the community is divided on whether the man was protecting his property or acted too aggressively. Legal expert Steve Shellist spoke with ABC13 about the use of self-defense in Texas. He stated that while Texas law permits self-defense, the rules can be complicated. He emphasized the importance of understanding the law if you own a gun. Shellist explained that defending property is allowed in Texas. This includes defending your own or someone else’s property. However, when it comes to using deadly force, the law allows it only in specific situations, like during arson or burglary. A key question is what happens when a thief tries to flee the scene. In this case, investigators said the man shot the suspect after the theft had ended. Shellist advised that even if the law permits stopping a thief, it may not be wise to do so. He suggested letting the person escape rather than risking someone’s life or facing legal consequences. The Harris County District Attorney's Office said a court hearing is expected on Thursday for the shooter, who has been released from jail due to mental or intellectual disabilities.