SAN ANTONIO – San Antonio police have identified a 29-year-old man involved in a shooting incident that occurred on the West Side last week. The suspect, Michael Angel Roque, reportedly pointed a shotgun, which was covered by a duffle bag, at a group of officers outside a bar on September 25.
During the confrontation, Roque faced nine officers and a sergeant, all of whom discharged their weapons in response to the threat. According to the San Antonio Police Department (SAPD), all ten officers fired their guns, hitting Roque in the process.
As a result of this incident, Roque has been charged with two counts of aggravated assault against a peace officer, a serious first-degree felony. He has been recovering in the hospital for at least three days and is expected to survive, as confirmed by SAPD.
Following the shooting, the ten officers involved have been placed on administrative leave, a standard procedure after such incidents to allow for a thorough investigation.
Details of the Incident
The police were called to the 500 block of Ruiz Street after reports of an armed individual. When officers arrived, they found Roque moving toward the parking lot of the Kozy Korner Saloon. SAPD was informed about the shotgun concealed in the duffle bag, and an officer attempted to negotiate with Roque for several minutes.
In a bid to de-escalate the situation, Police Chief Jesse Salame mentioned that officers used “less-lethal beanbag” rounds to encourage Roque to drop the weapon and surrender. However, as the situation escalated, witnesses reported seeing Roque rack the shotgun and aim it at the officers, prompting the officers to fire their weapons.
After being shot, Roque received immediate medical attention from first responders before being transported to a nearby hospital. Fortunately, he is now recovering and is projected to survive his injuries.
Witnesses at the scene observed the police shooting at Roque and provided statements to the SAPD. Thankfully, there were no injuries reported among the officers or bystanders during this tense encounter.
Roque’s Perspective
In a statement, Roque expressed his fear during the confrontation, saying, “I was scared for my life. I didn’t know what I had did wrong.” It’s important to note that Roque has been diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, a condition that affects vision, since he was a child.
As investigations continue, the SAPD has tasked two separate units to look into the shooting before passing findings on to the Bexar County District Attorney’s Office. This thorough approach aims to ensure accountability and transparency in the handling of such critical incidents.
