HARRIS COUNTY, Texas — A second man has been arrested and charged with capital murder in the shooting death of deputy Fernando Esqueda last Thursday, according to Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez.
Gonzalez said Dremone Francis, 26, has been booked into the Harris County Jail. It's unclear what his alleged role in the shooting is at this time.
This comes after the accused shooter, Ronnie Palmer, was arrested the night of the shooting. Gonzalez said Esqueda was searching for Palmer Thursday night after Palmer reportedly assaulted a pizza shop worker. That's when the deputy was ambushed.
A witness told police it sounded like there were two different guns, prosecutors said in probable cause court. Investigators discovered 41 shell casings at the scene from two different types of guns.
Francis has also been charged with tampering with evidence.
"Defendant also admitted that immediately after the murder of deputy Esqueda, codefendant Palmer gave him a pistol and a mini Draco firearm and told him to get rid of them," prosecutors said. "A witness stated the defendant dropped off a pistol and a Draco in a black trash bag and told them the guns were hot."
Esqueda was 28 years old and a five-year veteran of the sheriff’s office. He was also a member of HCSO's Violent Person Task Force which hunts down child rapists, homicide suspects, and other violent offenders.
“He was dedicated to protecting and serving the residents of Harris County," Sheriff Gonzalez said. "We pray with Deputy Esqueda's family, friends, and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time. Deputy Esqueda’s commitment to duty and his sacrifice will always be remembered."
The sheriff shared funeral details for Esqueda on Sunday.