On Friday, June 21, 2023, at 1:15 p.m., Rowlett Police Department officers were dispatched to assist Kaufman County Constables with a burglary in progress and a vehicle pursuit that concluded at 8400 Sunset Blvd, Rowlett, Texas.
The suspect, identified as 31-year-old Andrew Blessed, fled the scene and led Kaufman and Rockwall County officers on a pursuit, ending at an apartment complex near Sunset Blvd. Blessed drove a presumed stolen rental truck into the entry of the apartment complex parking garage, exited the vehicle, and fled to his girlfriend’s apartment.
Upon arrival, officers observed Blessed barricaded inside the apartment with his girlfriend. Blessed, known to be dangerous and willing to confront police, threatened and unlawfully restrained his girlfriend. Rowlett PD established an outer perimeter to assist Kaufman County Constables.
Due to the escalating situation, Rockwall PD SWAT and Rowlett PD SWAT were called to the scene. After hours of negotiation, authorities decided to breach the door. Entry was made, and Blessed was taken into custody without further incident. His girlfriend was found safe and uninjured.
Kaufman County Constables took custody of Blessed and transported him back to Kaufman County. Due to the damage from the entry charges, the apartment was not securable, and the girlfriend was provided a courtesy night's stay at a local hotel, funded by Community Organizations Active in Disaster (COAD).
Blessed faces five felony charges, one misdemeanor, and two felony bond revocation charges.
