Deputies from the North Texas Sheriff's Criminal Interdiction Unit (NTXCIU) and agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) conducted a joint operation on Wednesday afternoon, November 1, 2023.
Deputies from NTXCIU initiated a vehicle stop on Interstate 30, suspecting the driver, identified as 36-year-old Rudy Chavira, of carrying a substantial quantity of narcotics. When deputies attempted to stop the vehicle, Chavira, the sole occupant, fled, leading to a vehicle pursuit.
The pursuit continued westbound on I-30, and as they approached the Dalrock Rd area in Rowlett, Texas, they encountered heavy traffic conditions. The situation escalated when Chavira came to a stop. As deputies approached the vehicle, he opened fire on them, prompting a defensive response. In the exchange of gunfire, Chavira sustained injuries and was later pronounced deceased at a local hospital. There were no other reports of injuries.
Following the incident, a search of Chavira's vehicle revealed approximately 12 kilos of cocaine, emphasizing the significance of the situation and the importance of the joint operation between NTXCIU and DEA.
The Texas Rangers were called to the scene to investigate the incident. NTXCIU is fully cooperating with their ongoing investigation to ensure a thorough and impartial inquiry into the events that transpired.
Collin County Sheriff Jim Skinner expressed his appreciation for the professionalism and bravery of the deputy sheriffs, stating, "They stand on the frontlines, facing the tsunami of deadly drugs and ruthless criminals pouring into our neighborhoods from the open southern border. Our deputies are committed to making whatever sacrifices are needed to safeguard the communities they serve, all while navigating the constant and inherent dangers of their mission. I am grateful for their selflessness."
Sheriff Terry Garrett of Rockwall County added, "These deputies perform a very dangerous job on a daily basis to protect our citizens. We must continue to hold a strong line against the flow of illegal narcotics that continue to take the lives of Americans on a daily basis. The partnerships between our agencies and citizens must remain strong to stem the tide. We are thankful for these deputies and their willingness to protect against this evil."
This investigation remains active and ongoing.
About NTXCIU
The North Texas Sheriff's Criminal Interdiction Unit (NTXCIU) is a multi-jurisdictional team of specially trained deputies from Collin, Grayson, Hunt, Parker, Rockwall, Smith, Tarrant, and Wise County Sheriff’s Offices. Their mission is to combat the flow of illicit narcotics and human trafficking into North Texas. Formal operations began in December 2017.
