David Garza, a Houston teacher, bravely intervened to save a 15-year-old girl from an attacker in east Houston. Authorities are seeking information to identify and apprehend the suspect.
HOUSTON, TX (2-minute read) — A middle school teacher from Houston is being recognized for his heroic actions after saving a teenage girl from an attacker in east Houston. The dramatic incident, captured on video, unfolded just before midnight on July 28. Investigators have released an image of the suspect, who was seen wearing a black hoodie with a white Reebok logo, blue jeans, and white tennis shoes. Anyone with information about the suspect’s identity or whereabouts is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.
The incident occurred when a 15-year-old girl got off a METRO bus near an apartment complex on Woodforest Boulevard, located just north of I-10 between Normandy Street and Uvalde Road. As she walked, she was followed and subsequently attacked by a man.
David Garza, the teacher who intervened, responded immediately upon hearing the girl’s cries for help. “I looked out the window and saw a man assaulting a woman on the ground, trying to remove her clothes,” Garza recounted. Acting without hesitation, Garza grabbed his firearm and rushed to the scene. Surveillance footage shows Garza springing into action.
“I ran outside and demanded to know what was happening. The girl screamed, ‘I’m 15, help me!’ I then aimed my firearm at the man and ordered him to stop,” Garza explained. The suspect, who was holding the girl by her hair, released her instantly and fled. Garza chased the suspect, giving the girl a chance to escape to safety.
Reflecting on the event, Garza mentioned this wasn’t the first time he had chased after someone trying to harm a child. He affirmed his commitment to protecting others, stating, “I think it’s something anyone else would have done — come help a child.”
Crime Stoppers may pay up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest of the suspect in this case. Information may be reported by calling 713-222-TIPS (8477), submitted online at www.crime-stoppers.org, or through the Crime Stoppers mobile app. Only tips and calls DIRECTLY TO Crime Stoppers are anonymous and eligible for a cash reward.
Safety Tip: Always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially when alone at night. Trust your instincts and have a safety plan in case of emergencies.
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