Harlingen Fatal Shooting – A high-speed police pursuit on Friday afternoon, December 26, 2025, ended in a fatal officer-involved shooting in Harlingen, Texas, following a violent confrontation between law enforcement and a suspect wanted on felony warrants. Authorities confirmed that no officers or members of the public were injured during the incident.
The sequence of events began at approximately 12:46 p.m. when officers with the Combes Police Department attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a man later identified as Andres Arizmendi. Arizmendi was wanted in connection with outstanding felony warrants issued out of Harlingen. Instead of stopping, the suspect fled, initiating a pursuit that quickly escalated and moved into Harlingen city limits.
As the chase progressed, additional agencies joined the effort, including Cameron County Precinct 5 Constables. According to law enforcement officials, the suspect drove at high speeds through populated areas, posing a significant danger to motorists and pedestrians. During the pursuit, Arizmendi’s vehicle struck multiple other vehicles, though no serious injuries were reported as a result of those collisions.
The chase came to an end at the intersection of East Harrison Avenue and Business 77 when the suspect’s vehicle became disabled. Authorities reported that upon exiting the vehicle, Arizmendi was armed and immediately opened fire on law enforcement officers at the scene. Officers returned fire in response to what they described as an imminent threat to their safety and the safety of others nearby.
Arizmendi was struck multiple times during the exchange of gunfire. Emergency medical personnel were called to the scene, but he was pronounced dead at the location. Officials confirmed that no officers, deputies, or civilians were injured during the confrontation.
Further investigation revealed that Arizmendi was wanted in connection with an aggravated assault with a deadly weapon involving a family member that reportedly occurred on Christmas Day, December 25, 2025. Authorities indicated that the seriousness of the prior allegation contributed to the urgency of locating and apprehending the suspect.
Following standard protocol for officer-involved shootings in Texas, the investigation has been taken over by the Texas Rangers. The Cameron County District Attorney’s Office also responded to the scene and will conduct an independent review of the incident. Officials stated that this process is intended to ensure transparency and determine whether the use of force complied with state law and departmental policies.
Authorities have not released additional details regarding the firearm used by the suspect or the exact number of rounds fired. The investigation remains ongoing, and further information is expected to be released once preliminary findings are completed.
