Investigators have identified the alleged shooter, a 41-year-old man, and are currently looking for him.
SCHERTZ, Texas — The Schertz Police Department is actively searching for an alleged shooter who injured a man and forced three schools in the area to be placed under a brief “secure status” Tuesday afternoon.
Around 2:30 p.m., Schertz PD responded to the 9000 block of Aranda Lane after receiving reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, authorities say, officers found a man with a “serious” gunshot injury to his thigh; he was taken to a local hospital.
Officials called this a “very dynamic, evolving scene and investigation.” According to their preliminary reports, some sort of “altercation” ensued between two residents and a contract road repair crew. Officials said the situation between the residents escalated to “gunplay” that left the victim shot.
It’s unclear if the victim is a resident or a member of the road repair crew.
Following their protocols, authorities said they placed nearby Rose Garden Elementary, Ray Corbett Junior High and Founders Classical Academy schools under the secure status due to the nearby shooting. It was lifted about 25 minutes later.
Investigators said they identified 41-year-old Stephen Patterson as the shooting suspect in this case. He was described as having brown hair and is believed to be driving a green 2006 GMC Z71 with Texas license plate CHF5706 or VVY3659.
If you see or know anything about Patterson’s whereabouts, you’re urged to call police at (210) 619-1200 or 911.
“Please do not initiate contact with the suspect, he should be considered armed and dangerous,” Schertz PD said.