The Brazoria County Sheriff's Office says that the deputy involved in the fatal shooting of a Texas State University freshman has been fired.
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Deputy Kevin Tippit was relieved of duty for allegedly tracking an 18-year-old student to his home and fatally shooting him in the garage.
Brazoria County Sheriff Bo Stallman announced the Houston-area deputy's termination on Tuesday via social media.
"The authority that is entrusted to law enforcement officers is extraordinary. With that authority comes a responsibility to exercise sound judgment, follow policy and uphold the standards that are expected by this profession," Stallman said in a video
posted on Facebook.Tippit was fired following a week-long investigation.
"I have determined that due to the policy violations, related to the handling and discharging of his firearm, the employment of the deputy involved in the shooting on June 1, Kevin Tippit, has been terminated effective today."
The sheriff says the termination is independent of the Texas Rangers' investigation. Furthermore, the case will go to a grand jury to decide whether he will be prosecuted.
Deputy Killed 18-Year-Old Texas State Student
Mendoza was allegedly heading home from a local park when Tippit attempted to pull him over. Once the Texas State student allegedly fled, Tippit followed him to his residence.
When Mendoza reached his home, just over a mile away, and entered his parking garage, Tippit allegedly discharged his gun and fatally shot the teen victim.
Mendoza was rushed to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead, according to officials.
Charles Adams, an attorney representing Mendoza's family, has said Mendoza was unarmed.
"John Gabriel Mendoza Jr. lost his life. Your family lost a son. Friends lost someone they loved. Regardless of any outcome of any investigation, your family's loss is permanent. And your grief is real," Stallman said.
"I can not begin to understand the pain that your family is experiencing. But I wanted you to know that your loss is seen. And that John Mendoza Jr. will not be forgotten."
Mendoza was studying management at Texas State University in San Marcos.
