
AUSTIN, TX. Sept. 12, 2016 — Governor Abbott awarded the Star of Texas Award to 57 Texans, including Jacinto City’s recipient Sgt. Jennifer Simpson-Castañeda.
The Star of Texas Award, created by the 2003 Legislature, go to first responders, peace officers and firefighters who have demonstrated remarkable courage and heroism in serving and protecting their communities and who have been seriously injured or killed in the line of duty.
Following is Sgt. Castañeda recollection of the March 20, 2013 shooting where she and Lt. Dennis Walker was shot.
“I and another police unit were going to a resident to interview the suspect on an un-related case but it evolved into a domestic disturbance and the shooting. A family member who had earlier called the police prior to my arrival said there wasn’t any weapons present.
I arrived at the location first and upon doing so I observed two females and a male at the doorway, they were screaming and pushing each other. As I ran to the house, they went back inside and out of my sight. Upon immediately entering the doorway of the house, I was shot without warning; I never had a chance to talk to him or pull my gun out. (more…)