The Lufkin Police Department is investigating a fatal shooting that occurred during an attempted vehicle theft overnight. The incident took place around 9 p.m. yesterday in the 1800 block of East Lufkin Avenue.
Marco Leyva, 25, reported that he had stopped at his business when an unknown black male entered his running truck, which had his wife and baby daughter inside. Despite Leyva's warnings and offers of an alternative vehicle, a physical altercation ensued, resulting in Leyva shooting the suspect.
Upon police arrival, Leyva was detained while the suspect received medical aid but later died at a local hospital. Initial difficulties in identifying the suspect were resolved when officers discovered a paper sack at the scene, indicating a recent jail release. Further contact with the jail confirmed the suspect's identity as Jarvis Houston, 47, of Lufkin. Houston had been released less than an hour prior on charges of assault/family violence causing bodily injury and a misdemeanor warrant, which had been satisfied with his jailing.
Surveillance footage from the business corroborated Leyva's account of the events leading to the shooting. No charges are expected against Leyva, as the incident appears to be a case of self-defense. However, the case is being sent to the Angelina County District Attorney’s Office for review.
The investigation remains ongoing.
