Suspect arrested in "random" shooting of off-duty Harris County sheriff's shot while sleeping

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) -- A man is behind bars, accused of shooting an off-duty Harris County sheriff's deputy while he slept in what authorities describe as a random act of violence.

The deputy, identified by family as Augustine Arellano, remains hospitalized after undergoing surgery. Arellano served in the marines and previously worked for two other departments, according to state records.

According to Houston police, Rodrigo Arriaga, Jr., 21, was arrested and charged with deadly conduct. Court records indicate neighborhood surveillance cameras helped link him to the shooting.

Police say a relative told them Arriaga had been firing a gun randomly out of a car window early Sunday morning, adding that "he just does that." Court records suggest he did not realize he had struck anyone.

The shooting is the latest hardship for the deputy and his family. During the deadly derecho in May 2024, Erika Arellano and her three children escaped unharmed after a tree fell onto their home, igniting a fire that destroyed it. At the time, the deputy was on duty responding to emergencies.

The family was living at the home where the deputy was shot while they rebuild.

Monday, Erika Arellano told ABC13 "this feels overwhelming" and says it will be a long recovery for husband.

Meantime, the Harris County Deputies Organization says it is providing financial assistance and support.

"We are keeping him and his family in our prayers and wish him a speedy recovery."

Arriaga is being held on a $75,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court Tuesday morning.