STAFFORD, TX – A man identified as Adrian Mercado, 35, is accused of fatally shooting 32-year-old Thomas Goodson before barricading himself inside a residence in Stafford and exchanging gunfire with officers.
The incident began around 9:55 p.m. on September 3, 2025, when Mercado’s father arrived at the Stafford Police Department and reported that his son had just killed someone at a home in the 13000 block of Lawrence Lane. He also warned that Mercado was armed and dangerous.
Responding officers located Goodson deceased in the backyard of the residence. Mercado fled the scene and later opened fire on officers during a search assisted by the Missouri City Police Department’s K-9 Unit. One round struck an officer in the abdomen but was deflected by his police radio, preventing injury.
For nearly 90 minutes, Mercado intermittently fired shots at officers while barricaded inside the residence. The East Fort Bend County Regional SWAT Team, which includes members from Stafford, Missouri City, and Sugar Land, was called in to assist. A Stafford officer discharged one round toward the suspect, though it has not been confirmed if Mercado was struck. Preliminary information suggests Mercado’s injuries may have been self-inflicted, though the matter remains under investigation.
“Last night’s events emphasize the dangers law enforcement officers face when responding to violent situations,” said Stafford Police Lt. Luciano Lopez. “We are grateful that no officers were seriously injured, and our thoughts remain with the victim’s family during this tragic time. We appreciate the assistance of our local law enforcement partners and the community’s patience as this investigation continues.”
The Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office and the Texas Rangers are assisting with the investigation. Additional details will be released as they become available.
