Houston Police Shoot Motorist Who Reached for a Gun During Traffic Stop

A police shooting occurred in Houston after a motorist fled a minor collision and then reached for a weapon during a traffic stop, resulting in his death. The incident was captured on bodycam footage and has sparked investigations.

Michael Dziedzic was involved in a three-car accident on the North Freeway on May 17. He drove away from the scene but was soon stopped by officers in a nearby parking lot. Videos show officers approaching Dziedzic’s SUV, questioning him about the crash.

During the interaction, officers instructed Dziedzic to exit the vehicle and placed him in handcuffs. Moments later, Dziedzic was seen reaching into his waistband. Recognizing a possible threat, officers shouted warnings and opened fire, striking him multiple times.

Footage shows Dziedzic slumped in his seat with a gun still in his waistband after being shot. Houston Police confirmed that he was declared dead at the scene. The officers’ bodycam recordings reveal a tense exchange, culminating in the deadly shooting.

Body camera footage of a Houston police officer speaking with a male suspect in a vehicle. — Michael Dziedzic was pulled over after fleeing a crash on the North Freeway.

Body camera footage of a police officer pointing a gun at a suspect in a vehicle. — Police officers approach Dziedzic’s SUV and question him about the accident.

Bodycam footage of a police officer pointing a gun at a suspect in a car. — Officers order Dziedzic to step out, but he reaches for a weapon before being shot.

Body camera footage of a police shooting. — After multiple gunfire, Dziedzic collapses in his vehicle; he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities state that the investigation is in its early stages, with officials reviewing witness statements, video footage, and forensic evidence to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting.