Attorney Shares Update After Meeting with Texas Rangers in John Mendoza Jr. Investigation
Attorney Charles Adams said he recently met with Texas Rangers investigators and John Mendoza Sr. to discuss the ongoing investigation into the death of John Mendoza Jr.
According to Adams, investigators appear to be considering manslaughter or accidental discharge allegations involving Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Tippit. Adams disagrees, stating he believes the evidence supports a murder charge.
Adams said investigators confirmed the existence of both dash camera and body camera footage and indicated the Mendoza family should be allowed to view the videos next week.
Investigators reportedly stated that Deputy Tippit was not one of the officers seen at a park before the incident and that no criminal activity by the young men was observed there. They believe the group may have later mistaken Tippit for one of those officers.
According to Adams, investigators said Mendoza allegedly fled from Deputy Tippit at high speeds, potentially constituting felony evading, though questions remain about the reason for the attempted traffic stop.
Adams said investigators told him Deputy Tippit approached the vehicle alone with his firearm drawn and fired a single shot through the window, striking Mendoza. According to Adams, investigators said no verbal commands were given before the shot and that Tippit claims he does not remember firing the weapon. Investigators reportedly discussed the possibility of an involuntary trigger pull but said they have not seen evidence supporting a murder charge.
Adams also referenced allegations from a former police officer who claims Deputy Tippit previously used excessive force against her son during a traffic stop. Those allegations have not been adjudicated.
The Texas Rangers investigation remains ongoing, and no final charging decision has been announced.
