A 36-year-old man from Beaumont, Texas, identified as Jamie Devon Blanchard, was shot and killed by members of the Gulf Coast Violent Offenders Task Force in east Harris County on Wednesday morning. The Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences records confirm that Blanchard died from multiple gunshot wounds.

Blanchard was a fugitive wanted on multiple counts of sexual assault of a child in Jefferson County. He had been on the run since being indicted on these charges in 2021, where he was accused of assaulting two girls.

According to the district clerk in Orange County, Blanchard had previously faced charges of sexually assaulting a 5-year-old girl in 2012. However, he was acquitted at trial.

The incident occurred when members of the task force attempted to arrest Blanchard. As they conducted surveillance, Blanchard emerged from a home and attempted to flee in a car. Task force members ordered him to surrender, but he brandished a gun. In response, the task force members opened fire, fatally shooting Blanchard in the front yard of a home.

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office reported no injuries to law enforcement during the altercation. The Harris County District Attorney’s Office was also present at the scene to investigate the officer-involved shooting.

The Gulf Coast Violent Offenders Task Force consists of local, state, and federal agents, as well as local police officers. Their primary mission is to apprehend the most dangerous offenders.

This is a developing story, and further information will be provided as it becomes available.

Stay Updated: Download the 12News App to receive news and weather alerts on your mobile device.

More Crime News: Visit our Crime section to read more crime-related stories.

Tips and Help: Submit an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers of Southeast Texas by calling 833-TIPS (8477) or downloading the P3Tips App on your mobile device. You may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1000.

Contact Us: Send us a news tip or download our app for the latest updates.