Retired TX Cop Shot Dead By Son Wednesday Identified As Dove Meadows Man Brian Merritt

SPRING, TX. (THECOUNT) — A former Harris County deputy who investigators said was shot to death Wednesday by his son at their home in Dove Meadows, TX, Wednesday, has been identified as Brian Merritt.

Merritt, 53, was shot by his 27-year-old son in an apparent attempt to protect his mother, reports say.

The shooting happened about 5:30 a.m. near the corner of Meadow Hill Dr, and Meadowhill Ct, in Dove Meadows, TX 77388.

Harris County Sheriff Gonzalez said Merritt was found dead at the scene adding that there may have been a history of disturbances at the home.

“We heard there may have been a history here at this location, maybe with this individual and this family, but to what extent we still don’t know,” Gonzalez said.

Investigators said the 22-year-old son of Brian Merritt, 53, said he shot his father in order to protect his mother, who was being assaulted by Merritt. “The adult male we’re assuming here was the son that contacted us and he did disclose that he had shot his father during a disturbance,” Gonzalez said. source

Gonzalez said Merritt was a 30-year veteran of the department who retired last year.

Investigators said the evidence will be presented to the Harris County district attorney, who will decide whether charges will be filed.