HSCO identifies Sgt. Watson was killed off duty in a motorcycle accident in Pearland

A Harris County Sheriff’s Office sergeant was killed in a crash Saturday afternoon in Pearland, officials said. The incident took place around 1:15 PM near Shadow Creek Parkway and Kinsley Drive.

HCSO identified Sgt. Bruce Watson, a 20-year veteran in the ward who had just had a job leading a funeral procession and was on his way home. He later died of his injuries at Memorial Hermann Hospital.

The sergeant was riding his motorcycle when he was involved in a crash with an SUV. The driver stopped after the crash and showed no signs of drugs or intoxication, Pearland police said.

Investigators said it appears to be an accident while they are still investigating how the crash happened.

At this point, researchers aren’t sure who was to blame.

“Our entire Sheriff’s Office family is mourning the sudden loss of our old brother,” said Sheriff Ed Gonzalez. “Sgt. Watson served his community with honor and distinction, and we ask everyone to raise their families in prayer during this difficult time.”

Watson, 51, was assigned to the Patrol Support Services Bureau and worked the night shift at the Emergency Dispatch Center. He joined the sheriff’s office in March 2000, serving as a detention sergeant at Harris County Jail, a patrol training officer and an instructor at the training academy. He was also a veteran of the United States Army.

Watson is survived by his wife, a Houston police officer, and his three grown children, two daughters and a son. Funeral arrangements for Watson are pending.

Pearland Police Department works on the spot.