Attempted truck theft leaves one dead

LUFKIN – One person is dead after authorities in Lufkin said he attempted to steal a truck shortly after being released from jail according to our news partners at KETK. According to police, 25-year-old Marco Levya told officers that around 9 p.m. on Wednesday night he stopped at his business in the 1800 block of East Lufkin Avenue when “an unknown Black male” entered his running truck with his wife and baby inside.

Officials said that “despite Leyva’s warnings and offers of an alternative vehicle, a physical altercation ensued, resulting in the suspect being shot.”

The man later died at a local hospital, and was identified as Jarvis Houston, 47 of Lufkin, who jail officials reported was released less than an hour prior for charges of assault/family violence causing bodily injury and an active warrant.

“Surveillance footage from the business confirmed Leyva’s account of what led to the shooting,” a release said. “No charges are expected against Leyva, as the incident is believed to be a case of self-defense, however it is being sent to the Angelina County District Attorney’s Office for review.”

The investigation is ongoing.