SWAT called after smoke fills north Houston hotel room, man peacefully taken into custody

HOUSTON, TX – A man was taken into custody after heavy smoke activated the sprinkler system at a hotel along the North Freeway, prompting a response from Houston police and the SWAT team.

Patrol officers responded to a call at the Suburban Studios located at 13505 North Freeway after reports of smoke coming from a room. The smoke was significant enough to activate the hotel’s sprinkler system. Officers attempted to make contact with the man inside the room but initially received no response.

According to police, there were reports the man may have been armed and was acting in a threatening manner when civilians attempted to check on him. Those individuals backed away before officers arrived.

SWAT officers and negotiators were called to the scene. Negotiators were eventually able to persuade the man to exit the room peacefully shortly after 5 a.m. No further incident occurred.

The Houston Fire Department evaluated the man for medical treatment at the scene. Police said he is in custody, and the case will be referred to the Harris County District Attorney’s Office for review of possible charges.

Hotel occupants were temporarily evacuated from nearby rooms and floors as a precaution. After the situation was resolved, guests were allowed to return to their rooms. Hotel staff began cleanup efforts due to water damage caused by the sprinkler system.

Police said it remains under investigation whether there was an active fire or only smoke inside the room. The investigation is ongoing.