HARRIS COUNTY, Texas – Two years have passed since Deputy Darren Almendarez of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office was tragically shot and killed while off duty in an attempt to stop thieves from stealing his truck’s catalytic converter. Over the weekend, the community came together to pay tribute to the dedicated deputy, who had served the community for 23 years.
Deputy Almendarez and his wife were leaving a grocery store when he noticed three individuals in the act of stealing his truck’s catalytic converter. In a selfless act, he told his wife to seek safety and confronted the thieves, resulting in him being shot multiple times by the perpetrators. His wife, Flor Zarzoza, witnessed the heartbreaking incident unfold before her eyes.
Following Deputy Almendarez’s tragic death, Senate Bill 224 was passed into law by Governor Greg Abbott, imposing stricter penalties for catalytic converter theft by classifying it as a felony offense. Zarzoza expressed the significance of this legislation, emphasizing the importance of advocating for change to prevent further losses like her husband’s.
In a prior incident back in 2022, a notable catalytic converter theft ring was dismantled by authorities, with investigators linking the group to the suspects charged with Deputy Almendarez’s murder. Currently, Joshua Stewart, Fredarius Clark, and Fredrick Tardy face charges of capital murder, with upcoming court dates scheduled for April. While Stewart and Clark are in custody without bond, Tardy, who was a minor at the time of the crime, was granted bond and has since been released.
The District Attorney’s office has announced plans to pursue the death penalty for Stewart and Clark, citing the severity of their alleged actions. In a poignant tribute to her late husband, Zarzoza described Deputy Almendarez as her hero, recognizing his sacrifice and bravery in protecting others.
As the community continues to mourn the loss of Deputy Almendarez, efforts to seek justice for his untimely death remain ongoing. The impact of his legacy and the repercussions of catalytic converter theft continue to resonate, reminding all of the risks law enforcement officers face in the line of duty.