SCHERTZ, Texas — A violent spree early in the morning last month in Schertz led to multiple felony charges against a local man, who police say attempted carjackings and fired shots in a residential neighborhood. Derrick Escobar, 45, is currently held in Guadalupe County jail with bonds totaling $440,000.
The Schertz Police Department reported being first summoned to a residence on Yucca Park at 4:42 a.m. on Feb. 25, after receiving calls about a violent disturbance. According to the report, Escobar allegedly tried to forcibly enter the home of his ex-wife, who reported being terrified and unsure of what prompted Escobar’s actions.
The police document details that Escobar presented videos to the officers, which he claimed were evidence of wrongdoing. However, the responding officer noted in the report, “There were clearly no people in the video, just the window to the residence,” suggesting a possible hallucination. Citing health issues and the potential danger he posed, police detained Escobar and transported him to Northeast Methodist Hospital for medical evaluation at approximately 5:12 a.m.
Despite this intervention, the situation escalated. Within hours, police responded to the area again after residents reported hearing gunfire. Officials stated that Escobar had left the hospital, then allegedly attempted to carjack three individuals at a nearby grocery store and subsequently discharged a firearm randomly while navigating through the neighborhood.
Surveillance footage obtained from nearby residents appeared to show Escobar jumping fences and acting erratically. Authorities managed to disarm and apprehend him after numerous homes and vehicles were damaged by bullets. The community commended the police response, though few were aware of the earlier incident involving Escobar.
Questions arose regarding the monitoring and management of individuals with mental health issues, particularly how Escobar was able to leave medical care and resume his disruptive activities. Although the Schertz Police Department has not yet issued a statement regarding this concern, the broader system includes protocols for such situations.
In Bexar County, the management of mental health crises involves a coordinated response through the Specialized Multidisciplinary Alternate Response Team (S.M.A.R.T.). This team operates across Bexar County and its 26 suburban cities, ensuring interventions for individuals experiencing mental health crises. A spokesman for the Bexar County Sheriff’s office explained that individuals in crisis can self-admit to facilities or be transported via MEDCOM, and can leave voluntarily unless deemed a danger by staff or under a protective custody order issued by the Probate Courts.
Despite these safeguards, Escobar’s case raises concerns about gaps in the system and challenges in balancing individual rights with public safety. Bexar County representatives underscored that, regardless of mental health status, individuals committing criminal acts are subject to arrest and prosecution if there is probable cause.
Escobar’s future legal proceedings are pending, as his next court date has not been announced. The incidents underscore ongoing discussions about mental health, legal response, and community safety, highlighting the complex interplay of health care and law enforcement in handling similar crises.