Mesquite Police Department, Texas
End of Watch Friday, December 3, 2021
Add to My HeroesRichard Lee Houston, II
Police Officer Richard Houston was shot and killed while responding to a disturbance in the parking lot of a grocery store at 1500 S Beltline Road.
During the investigation, a man produced a gun and opened fire on Officer Houston at about 1:40 pm. Both Officer Houston and the subject were critically wounded in the exchange of gunfire. Officer Houston was transported to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
The subject survived his wounds. In 2022, he was convicted of capital murder of a police officer and sentenced to life in prison without parole.
Officer Houston had served with the Mesquite Police Department for 21 years. He is survived by his wife, two daughters, and one son. His father had served with the Mesquite Police Department.
Bio
- Age 46
- Tour 21 years
- Badge 821
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Gun; Unknown type
- Offender Life without parole
Most Recent Reflection
View all 158 ReflectionsIt has already been 4 years. It seems like it was just yesterday. I can still hear our conversations in the parking lot after squad meeting. While most of us were still trying to wake up, you were already pumped for the day. Trying to get the rest of us pumped. But you never missed the opportunity to engage someone, motivate them, or just listen and pray with them.
You were a hell of an officer and even better friend. You will never be forgotten, for your impact on everyone you met will resonate for eternity.
Until we meet again brother.
Steve Birk
Mesquite PD- Retired
December 4, 2025
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