Deputy Says He Didn't Know Gun Fired in Teen's Death

Kevin Tippit, a former deputy with the Brazoria County Sheriff's Office, is currently facing charges of aggravated assault by a public servant in connection with the death of 18-year-old John Mendoza Jr. The incident occurred on June 1, 2026, following a traffic stop that escalated into a high-speed chase.

Tippit's attorney, Guy Womack, stated that his client claims he was unaware his weapon had discharged during the encounter. Body camera footage reportedly shows Tippit approaching the vehicle and firing his gun. Womack asserted that Tippit did not hear or feel the shot in the heat of the moment.

Following the shooting, Tippit reportedly attempted to render aid to Mendoza, removing him from the car and administering CPR. His defense maintains that the discharge was accidental, a statement Tippit himself made over the radio at the time. However, Mendoza's father has powerfully stated that his son's life mattered and will not be forgotten.

Tippit was indicted two months after the shooting and subsequently terminated from the Brazoria County Sheriff's Office due to policy violations. He now faces a potential prison sentence ranging from five years to life if convicted.