HUGHES SPRINGS, Texas — On February 18, 2026, at approximately 1:10 p.m., the Hughes Springs Police Department responded to the area of Victory Lane and Pratt Street to serve a Criminal Trespass Warning on Vinson Wood, who officers were told was headed to a residence where he was not welcome.
While staged nearby, officers confirmed Wood had an outstanding Morris County warrant for Assault Causing Bodily Injury – Family Member. A Texas Department of Public Safety trooper in the area was requested to assist.
Authorities say Wood was dropped off at the residence out of view of officers. When he noticed patrol units nearby, he fled on foot north through a neighboring property.
Because the incident occurred close to school property, Hughes Springs Police immediately notified the Hughes Springs ISD Police Department. As a precaution, campuses were placed in Secure status.
Under Texas Education Agency guidelines, a Secure status is used when a potential threat is outside a school building. Students and staff are brought indoors, exterior doors are locked, and normal classroom instruction continues. Officials emphasized this differs from a Lockdown, which is reserved for an active or imminent threat inside the building.
Police said there was no direct threat to the school or students at any time. The suspect was last seen fleeing north, away from campus. As additional officers arrived, law enforcement established a perimeter between the school and the suspect’s last known location. School administrators were provided routine updates throughout the incident.
Authorities later confirmed Wood fled into Morris County. Once the area was deemed safe, students were released at their normal dismissal time, with extra officers remaining nearby as a precaution.
The Hughes Springs Police Department thanked the Hughes Springs ISD Police Department and Superintendent’s Office for their quick coordination, along with the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Cass County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance.
Police say the search for Wood remains ongoing.
