EAGLE PASS, Texas — A potentially dangerous situation was defused Monday evening after Eagle Pass Police officers stopped and detained a heavily armed suspect following reports of a man experiencing mental health issues while carrying a firearm.

According to our sources with the Eagle Pass Police Department, the incident began when officers were dispatched to the 700 block of Concho Street after receiving a call about an unwanted person believed to be armed. By the time officers arrived, the individual had fled the area in an orange Kia, triggering a lookout alert to patrol units and nearby agencies.

A patrol officer later spotted the vehicle near Zacatecas Street and San Juan Drive and initiated a traffic stop. Police say the driver reached under his seat and refused to comply with repeated commands to exit the vehicle. After several tense moments, officers safely removed the suspect without injury.

A search of the vehicle revealed a cache of weapons and tactical equipment, including a handgun hidden under the driver’s seat, an AR-15 style rifle, a ballistic vest, a ballistic helmet, shotgun ammunition, and multiple loaded magazines with 7.62 caliber rounds.

The suspect was placed in protective custody and is undergoing another mental health evaluation through Camino Real Mental Health and Rehabilitation. Authorities confirmed that criminal charges may be pending as the investigation continues.

Police praised the quick and decisive actions of the responding officer. “Due to the patrol officer’s focus and commitment to the safety and well-being of our citizens and community, a potentially dangerous situation was successfully averted,” officials stated.

The Eagle Pass Police Department emphasized that public safety remains its top priority and urged residents to report suspicious behavior immediately.