Houston Police Department bodycam footage released from a December 1, 2025, incident shows a dramatic and rapid response to an armed robbery that escalated into a hostage situation at a local check-cashing store.

According to police, Officer Daniel Gonzalez arrived on scene less than 90 seconds after a silent alarm was triggered. Inside the store, suspect Paul Harvey McCoy Jr. was armed and holding employee Maria Gonzalez as a human shield. The officer issued commands as the suspect continued to pose an immediate threat to the hostage’s life.

With the suspect refusing to comply and maintaining control of the hostage, Officer Gonzalez fired three shots, striking McCoy in the neck and spine. The suspect survived but was left paralyzed. The employee was unharmed and safely rescued.

In the bodycam footage, the wounded suspect can be heard shouting, “Why’d you shoot me?” as officers secure the scene and provide medical aid. Police officials emphasized that the use of force was consistent with departmental policy and national standards for imminent threat scenarios involving hostages.

Authorities highlighted the role of silent alarm systems in high-risk businesses, noting that rapid police response can limit prolonged negotiations when a suspect presents an immediate danger. The incident remains under administrative review, as is standard procedure, while the officer involved has been praised for preventing potential loss of life.