The city of Terrell, Texas, is in mourning following the tragic death of Police Officer Jacob Candanoza, who was fatally shot during a routine traffic stop. The incident occurred late on Thursday night near a Super 8 Motel, at the intersection of Interstate 20 and Highway 34. Officer Candanoza’s call for backup was his last, leaving the community in a state of shock and grief.
By Friday morning, the crime scene had been cleared, with only a few state troopers remaining. Multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Mesquite and Forney police, had responded to the incident. The Texas Rangers also joined the investigation, which has since been concluded.
The specific circumstances leading to the shooting have not been disclosed by the authorities. However, the incident triggered an immediate response from emergency services following 911 calls reporting an officer down. Once the scene was secured, fire and emergency medical services were dispatched.
The suspect fled the scene after the shooting. However, an alert witness provided a license plate number, enabling off-duty Texas Highway Patrol officers to locate the suspect’s vehicle. This led to a high-speed chase into Van Zandt County. A coordinated search effort along Interstate 20 and Highway 64, involving drones and K-9 units, resulted in the arrest of the 25-year-old suspect from Mississippi. He is currently being held at the Kaufman County Detention Center.
Officer Candanoza, a husband, father, and former Marine, had only joined the Terrell Police Department a few months prior in July. A wreath bearing his badge number, 6190, now stands outside the police headquarters as a tribute to his service and sacrifice.
A procession in Candanoza’s honor saw an outpouring of support from law enforcement agencies across the region, including the Dallas Police Department and the Kaufman County Sheriff’s Office. An American flag draped over his casket symbolized the respect and gratitude for his dedication.
Candanoza leaves behind a young family, including a 5-year-old daughter. Friends and colleagues remember him as a devoted officer and a man of integrity. Valentine Torres, a close friend and fellow Marine, expressed his deep sense of loss, describing Candanoza as a person who took his responsibilities seriously and touched many lives.
The community of Terrell is now grappling with the loss of a dedicated officer, whose life was tragically cut short in service to others.