Deputy Sheriff Jose Vela, Hidalgo County Sheriff's Office, Texas

Deputy Sheriff Jose Vela

Hidalgo County Sheriff's Office, Texas

End of Watch Saturday, April 5, 1919

Jose Vela

Deputy Sheriff Jose Vela was shot and killed during a shootout with two auto thieves.

The subjects fled into the brush along the Rio Grande River and engaged deputies in a shootout throughout the night. Deputy Vela was shot and killed before one of the thieves was arrested. It is not known if the second subject was ever arrested.

Deputy Vela was survived by his wife.

Bio

Age 34
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Arrested

auto theft

Most Recent Reflection

View all 3 Reflections

It will be an honor to finally show Deputy Vela the respect he earned 100 years ago this officers memorial week. I’m proud to say that I know a few of his descendants well, all good people.
GOD bless you Deputy Vela and thank you for your sacrifice. Rest easy my brother, well take it from here!!!

Oscar D. Montoya Division Chief
Hidalgo County S. O.

May 9, 2018