Suspect uses gun in Courthouse following verdict

May 10—Walker County Sheriff's Department is investigating a shooting that occurred at the Courthouse around 2:30 p.m. Friday.

Editor's Note

The Huntsville Item will not be releasing any names in this story. The intent is to protect the victim(s). Sexual Assault crisis centers provide FREE and confidential information, counseling, and support. Call 1-800-656-HOPE to be connected with your closest sexual assault crisis center. Find more information at the Texas Association Against Sexual Assault (TAASA)'s Crisis Center Locator: taasa.org/crisis-center-locator/.

According to Sheriff Clint McRae, an individual out on bond was convicted of two charges of aggravated sexual assault of a child.

"Before being transported to jail for the conviction, the suspect made claims that he seriously needed to us the restroom and was allowed to enter a stall in the men's room," Sheriff McRae said. "An officer remained in close proximity. At that time, the suspect was able to shoot himself in the right temple with a small caliber firearm."

He added that officers immediately breached the stall and began administering lifesaving procedures to the individual.

"The suspect was transported by ambulance to the airport where a Life-Flight was used to transport the patient to HCA Houston Healthcare Conroe," Sheriff McRae said. "The condition of the suspect is unknown at this time."

Contact Brenda Poe at editor@itemonline.com