An off-duty deputy shot and killed Darrius Williams in Atascocita after Williams ignored commands and opened the car door.

An off-duty Harris County deputy shot and killed 27-year-old Darrius Williams in Atascocita on October 31, 2025, after Williams approached the deputy’s vehicle while the officer had just secured his child in a car seat. Authorities say Williams ignored verbal commands and opened the passenger door, prompting the deputy to fire multiple shots. Williams was pronounced dead at a hospital. The deputy, a four-year veteran, was placed on leave and the case is under investigation by both the sheriff’s office and district attorney’s office, with findings to be reviewed by a grand jury. Williams’ family said he had a history of mental health issues and had been reported to authorities prior to the incident.