Parents Step in to Subdue Elderly Gunman at Texas High School Band Event
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An elderly man, identified as Dennis Erwin Brandl Jr., was apprehended on suspicion of causing injury when he allegedly opened fire during a high school band competition in Pasadena, Texas, on Saturday, February 1. The Pasadena Police Department reported that Brandl Jr. entered Pasadena Memorial High School through the south side doors around 6:00 p.m. local time and within two minutes, discharged a weapon, hitting a man in his shoulder believed to be in his mid-20s. The victim, a percussion technical consultant for the Angleton Independent School District band, was promptly taken to the hospital and is currently in stable condition.
Authorities stated that Brandl Jr. claimed he was being pursued by someone and feared for his and his wife’s safety, as detailed in an updated release on Sunday, February 2. Despite not being affiliated with the school’s Texas Color Guard Circuit drumline competition, Brandl Jr. allegedly engaged in the incident. In response to the threat, a group of brave citizens, including several ex-military and law enforcement personnel, managed to swiftly subdue Brandl Jr., preventing further harm during the altercation.
During a press conference, Pasadena Police Chief Jerry Wright expressed gratitude towards the citizens who intervened, mentioning that within just a minute, they successfully disarmed the suspect and averted potential additional casualties. Among the heroic individuals who stepped in to de-escalate the situation were Air Force veteran Abram Trevino, Army veteran Adam Curow, Marine Corps veteran Efrain ‘Polo’ Castillo, and Houston police sergeant Joe Sanchez, all part of the renowned “Pearland Band Dads” group.
Sanchez recounted the chaotic scene where people screamed about an active shooter, prompting him and another parent to swiftly act and engage with the suspect. He described how they managed to successfully restrain Brandl Jr., disarm him, and secure him with makeshift handcuffs until law enforcement arrived. The courageous actions of these parents and other citizens on-site were crucial in neutralising the threat and avoiding further harm to those present at the high school band event.
Reports indicated that the initial individual who confronted Brandl Jr. preferred to remain anonymous, adding another layer of selfless heroism to the collective effort made to bring the situation under control. As of the latest update, Brandl Jr. remains in custody with no bond and is awaiting transfer to Harris County Jail, where he faces charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon laid by the Harris County District Attorney’s Office.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of community vigilance and prompt action in the face of unexpected threats. The quick thinking and bravery exhibited by the parents and citizens present at the band event highlight the critical role individuals can play in ensuring the safety and security of those around them. This event stands as a testament to the courage and unity displayed in times of crisis, reinforcing the value of collective resilience in the face of adversity.