Police in Liberty County, Texas, have launched a manhunt for a gunman who opened fire at a sports bar early Sunday morning, killing one person and wounding five others.

The shooting occurred at Alas Locas restaurant and bar near Cleveland, Texas, approximately 45 miles northeast of Houston, just before 2:30 a.m. local time according to deputies with the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office, local station KTRK reported.

Newsweek reached out to the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office via email on Sunday for comment.

Why It Matters

Active manhunts for violent suspects pose significant challenges for law enforcement agencies, particularly in rural communities where resources may be limited and escape routes are numerous.

The ability to quickly identify and apprehend armed individuals who have demonstrated willingness to use violence against strangers is critical for public safety. The success of such investigations frequently hinges on community cooperation and the speed with which law enforcement can process evidence and distribute suspect information to the public.

What To Know

The suspect, described as acting alone by authorities, arrived at the establishment around midnight and ordered a drink. Bar staff confirmed to deputies that the man was not a regular customer, according to KTRK.

After staying for about an hour, he left to go to his van, then returned to the patio area and opened fire on patrons. One man was pronounced dead at the scene, while two of the five injured were transported to hospitals by helicopter and are listed in critical condition, the station reported.

The Liberty County Sheriff’s Office has released limited details about the investigation. The suspect fled the scene in a distinctive white van with no side windows and a long scratch along the side, making it potentially identifiable to witnesses, according to the Associated Press and KTRK.

Authorities, meanwhile, have not disclosed any information about the suspect’s identity, possible motives, or the victims’ identities.

Officials told KTRK they plan to review surveillance footage of the shooting before releasing additional details about the suspect.

Alas Locas describes itself as a sports bar, with social media posts featuring typical bar fare including fried onion rings, nachos, and colorful cocktails. The shooting occurred during what would typically be peak nighttime hours for such venues.

Cleveland, Texas, is located in Liberty County, a largely rural area northeast of the Houston metropolitan region. The community has a population of approximately 8,000 residents.

What Happens Next?

The immediate priority for law enforcement is locating and apprehending the suspect who should be considered armed and dangerous.

Reporting from the Associated Press contributed to this article.