Terrell Police Officer Jacob Candanoza, 28, Fatally Shot During Routine Traffic Stop; Suspect Apprehended After Multi-Agency Pursuit in Van Zandt County”
TERRELL, TX — The Terrell community is reeling after a tragic incident late Sunday night that claimed the life of 28-year-old Officer Jacob Candanoza, a rising star in the Terrell Police Department. Officer Candanoza, who had been with the department for less than six months, was fatally shot during a routine traffic stop near the 1600 block of South State Highway 34. The suspect, whose identity has not yet been released, was apprehended following a multi-agency pursuit into neighboring Van Zandt County.
The incident unfolded on December 8, 2024, around 11 p.m., near a Super 8 motel, and has left the town of Terrell, located 30 miles east of Dallas, mourning the loss of a dedicated public servant and family man.
Timeline of Events
The Traffic Stop
Officer Candanoza initiated a routine traffic stop on a vehicle for unspecified violations near the motel. According to department spokesperson Mary Hauger, he conducted the stop in line with standard procedures and, at some point during the interaction, requested backup. Details about the nature of the stop or what prompted his request for assistance remain under investigation.
Shortly after his radio request, two separate 911 calls were received, reporting that an officer had been shot. These calls came from witnesses near the scene, who described hearing gunfire and seeing Officer Candanoza on the ground next to his patrol car.
Emergency Response
When responding officers arrived, they found Officer Candanoza critically injured with multiple gunshot wounds. Witnesses said officers and paramedics worked frantically to stabilize him at the scene before he was rushed to a nearby hospital. Despite their best efforts, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival.
In a heroic final act, Officer Candanoza managed to relay the suspect’s license plate information to dispatchers before losing consciousness. This critical piece of information set off an intensive manhunt involving local and state law enforcement agencies.
The Pursuit and Apprehension
The license plate number provided by Officer Candanoza allowed law enforcement to track the suspect’s vehicle heading east on Interstate 20. With assistance from the Texas Highway Patrol, off-duty officers, and tactical units, authorities pursued the vehicle into Van Zandt County.
The pursuit ended without further incident, and the suspect was taken into custody near Canton, Texas. Officials reported that the suspect did not resist arrest and was transported to the Van Zandt County Jail, where he is being held pending charges. The suspect’s identity and possible motive remain undisclosed as the investigation continues.
Officer Jacob Candanoza: A Life of Service
Born and raised in Terrell, Jacob Candanoza was a familiar and well-loved figure in the community. He joined the Terrell Police Department on July 15, 2024, after graduating from the North Texas Police Academy earlier that summer. Colleagues described him as a dedicated and compassionate officer who was eager to serve and protect his hometown.
Candanoza was known for his strong work ethic, approachable demeanor, and unwavering commitment to making a difference. “He wasn’t just a coworker; he was family,” said Terrell Police Chief Brent McAlister during a press conference. “Jacob had a bright future ahead of him. He embodied everything we strive for in this department—integrity, compassion, and bravery.”
Candanoza leaves behind his wife, Maria, and their two-year-old daughter, Sofia. The young officer’s devotion to his family was evident to everyone who knew him. “He was a loving husband and a doting father,” said longtime friend and fellow officer, Luis Herrera. “Everything he did, he did for them.”
Community Mourning and Tributes
The city of Terrell has been left shaken by the loss of Officer Candanoza. Flags across the town have been lowered to half-staff, and a growing memorial of flowers, candles, and handwritten notes now surrounds the Terrell Police Department headquarters.
Local leaders have expressed their condolences and called for unity during this difficult time. “This is a heartbreaking loss for our community,” said Mayor Tracy Driver. “Officer Candanoza was a hero in every sense of the word. We will ensure his sacrifice is never forgotten.”
A candlelight vigil is planned for December 10 at 7 p.m. at Terrell City Park, where residents will gather to honor Officer Candanoza’s memory.
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
The investigation into the shooting is being led by the Texas Rangers in collaboration with the Terrell Police Department and the Kaufman County District Attorney’s Office. Forensic teams have been working to reconstruct the events leading up to the shooting, including examining body camera footage, witness testimonies, and ballistic evidence.
Preliminary reports suggest that the shooting occurred during or shortly after Officer Candanoza interacted with the driver. Whether the firearm used in the shooting was recovered has not yet been confirmed.
The suspect faces a range of charges, including capital murder of a peace officer, which could carry the death penalty under Texas law. Kaufman County District Attorney Brian Carpenter has vowed to seek justice for Officer Candanoza and his family. “This was a senseless act of violence against someone who dedicated his life to protecting others,” Carpenter said. “We will pursue this case to the fullest extent of the law.”
Broader Implications for Officer Safety
The tragic loss of Officer Candanoza has reignited discussions about the dangers faced by law enforcement officers, particularly during routine traffic stops. These stops are among the most unpredictable and perilous aspects of police work, with officers frequently encountering unknown threats.
Chief McAlister emphasized the importance of ongoing training and support for officers in the wake of this tragedy. “We owe it to Jacob and every officer who puts their life on the line to ensure they have the resources and training they need to stay safe,” he said.
A Legacy of Service and Sacrifice
Officer Jacob Candanoza’s untimely death serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers every day. As the community mourns his loss, plans are already underway to honor his memory through scholarships and initiatives aimed at supporting young individuals pursuing careers in public service.
“He was one of the best among us,” said Chief McAlister. “His dedication to this community and his family will never be forgotten. We will carry his spirit with us as we continue to serve.”
