GARLAND, Texas — A North Texas father shot and killed a man who attempted to carjack his vehicle while several family members, including children, were inside, in what police are calling an apparent case of self-defense.
The incident unfolded Sunday afternoon, May 3, near Highway 66 and Dairy Road in Garland.
According to the Garland Police Department, officers were first dispatched around 3:30 p.m. following a multi-vehicle crash involving a green car that had struck two other vehicles.
Authorities say the driver of the crashed vehicle then exited his car and began attempting to steal other vehicles in the area, first at a nearby gas station and later in a convenience store parking lot.
Multiple attempts to take vehicles by force were unsuccessful before the suspect approached a white sedan occupied by a family.
Police said the suspect tried to force his way into the vehicle, prompting a confrontation with the driver. During the struggle, family members—including several children—fled the car as the situation escalated.
The driver then drew a handgun and fired, striking the suspect. The man was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later died from his injuries. No one else was hurt in the incident.
Investigators say the driver remained at the scene and has been cooperating with authorities. Garland police have indicated that, based on the circumstances, the shooting appears to be justified.
“At this time, we are looking at this as self-defense,” a police spokesperson said, noting that the case will be reviewed in full but no charges are currently expected.
Officials added that the suspect was unarmed during the encounter but had demonstrated erratic and aggressive behavior leading up to the attempted carjacking, including the earlier crash and multiple failed attempts to seize vehicles.
The identity of the deceased has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin. The investigation remains ongoing.
This incident has raised renewed concerns about public safety and the unpredictability of violent encounters, particularly in situations involving families and children. Local residents who witnessed the aftermath described the event as alarming and close to home.
Police are urging anyone with additional information or footage of the incident to come forward as they continue to review evidence.
A criminal ran from the police in Garland, TX yesterday and crashed his vehicle in the process.
He then attempted to carjack the vehicle shown here and the driver, with his family in the car, told them to run whilst he handled the armed criminal.
Handle him he did. The… pic.twitter.com/Uw0tYDSFlL
— Mrgunsngear (@Mrgunsngear) May 4, 2026
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