Opening statements are scheduled to commence on Tuesday in the murder trial against Joshua Stewart. Stewart faces charges related to the fatal shooting of Harris County Deputy Darren Almendarez.

The Fatal Incident Involving Deputy Almendarez

Deputy Almendarez, a 23-year veteran of the department assigned to the auto theft division, was 51 years old at the time of his death. He was reportedly off-duty when the incident occurred in 2022.

Deputies responded to a shooting incident on FM 1960, near the intersection of Aldine Westfield Road and Humble Westfield Road. Authorities allege that Almendarez and his wife were leaving a grocery store when he observed three suspects, including Stewart, attempting to steal his truck’s catalytic converter.

Confrontation and Shooting

The deputy noticed a black Nissan Altima backed up to his truck with two males positioned underneath the vehicle. Almendarez instructed his wife to move to a safe location before approaching the suspects, according to the sheriff's office.

As Almendarez moved closer, the suspects reportedly opened fire, striking the deputy multiple times. The Harris County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) confirmed that the deputy managed to return fire, hitting at least two of the individuals involved.

Following the exchange of gunfire, the suspects fled the scene in their vehicle. Deputy Almendarez was transported to HCA Houston Healthcare Northwest, where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries.

Arrests and Charges Filed

Shortly after the shooting, two wounded suspects arrived at the same hospital in their vehicle. The HCSO identified these individuals as Joshua Stewart, aged 23, and Fredarius Clark, aged 19.

Both Stewart and Clark have been formally charged with capital murder for their alleged roles in the deputy's death. The third male suspect involved in the incident was later apprehended by authorities on the North Freeway; he was identified as Fredrick Tardy.

Legislative Aftermath: The Deputy Darren Almendarez Act

In the wake of Deputy Almendarez's death, new legislation was enacted to toughen penalties for individuals convicted of stealing catalytic converters. Governor Greg Abbott signed this new law on May 29, 2023.

The enhanced penalties established by this legislation officially took effect on July 1, 2023. The law is formally known as the Deputy Darren Almendarez Act.