A Hays County grand jury on Tuesday chose not to indict two San Marcos Police Department officers involved in the fatal shooting of 25‑year‑old Thomas Anthony Hawkins III on June 26. The decision came after the grand jury reviewed body‑camera video from the officers and the findings of a Texas Rangers investigation.
Incident details
According to Hays County Criminal District Attorney Kelly Higgins, officers responded to a call at the Mission Trail @ El Camino Real apartment complex after being told Hawkins was inside a unit. Hawkins was wanted on active warrants for violent offenses in three counties, including a charge in Hays County.
Three officers arrived at the scene. Two entered the third‑floor apartment while a third officer monitored the balcony below. After knocking, residents—including Hawkins’ brother—emerged and spoke with the officers. The officers were informed that weapons were present inside the unit.
The brother offered to re‑enter the apartment to persuade Hawkins to surrender peacefully. While the officers waited outside, they heard voices and what appeared to be a struggle inside. The apartment door opened, and the brother was seen pushing Hawkins out.
Hawkins emerged holding a knife in his right hand and immediately lunged at one of the officers. Both officers fired, striking Hawkins multiple times. He later died from his injuries.
Legal review
The Texas Rangers led the criminal investigation, working alongside the San Marcos Police Department. The district attorney’s office said the grand jury examined the officers’ body‑camera footage and the Rangers’ investigative report before concluding that no criminal charges should be filed.
District Attorney Higgins’ office emphasized that the grand jury’s role was to determine whether the officers’ actions met the legal standard for indictment. After reviewing the evidence, the jurors determined that the officers acted within the bounds of the law given the circumstances presented.
Community response
The decision has sparked mixed reactions among San Marcos residents. Some community members expressed relief that the officers were not prosecuted, citing the danger they faced when confronted by an armed suspect. Others called for greater transparency and accountability in police use‑of‑force incidents.
Local advocacy groups have urged the San Marcos Police Department to review its engagement protocols and to provide additional training on de‑escalation techniques. The department has indicated it will continue to cooperate with the district attorney’s office and will assess any recommended policy changes.
Next steps
While no criminal charges will be filed, the San Marcos Police Department said it will conduct an internal review of the shooting. The department also pledged to keep the public informed about any policy revisions or training initiatives that result from the review.
Residents seeking more information about the incident or wishing to voice concerns are encouraged to attend the upcoming San Marcos City Council meeting, where public safety matters are on the agenda.
Original reporting: San Antonio, TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
