Henry Canales, a 42-year-old male of Hispanic ethnicity, was a dedicated officer with the Houston Police Department. He tragically died on June 23, 2009, while performing his duties during an undercover operation. Officer Canales was part of an operation targeting stolen televisions when he was fatally shot in the parking lot of a Walgreens drugstore at Hillcroft and Bellaire.
The incident occurred when Canales and another undercover officer arranged to meet with suspects who were
interested in purchasing the stolen televisions. During the exchange, one of the suspects pulled out a pistol and opened fire on Officer Canales. Despite being shot, Canales managed to return fire, but he succumbed to his injuries at the scene. The suspect was also killed in the ensuing shootout.
Following the incident, three other suspects who were with the shooter fled the scene but were later apprehended by the police. The suspects, Andres Nava-Maldonado and Xiomara Mendez-Rosales, were found guilty of murder and criminal activity in connection with Officer Canales' death. They were sentenced to 60 years in prison. A third suspect, Roberto Carrillo, was also involved in the shooting but was killed by police during the incident.
Officer Canales was remembered as a dedicated and passionate officer who cared deeply about his work and his community. He was a veteran of the United States Air Force and had served with the Houston Police Department for 16 years. He is survived by his wife, Amor Canales, and their two children, Stephanie and Henry Canales Jr.
The loss of Officer Canales was a significant tragedy for his family, friends, and colleagues, who continue to honor his memory and service. His dedication to law enforcement and his commitment to keeping the community safe are remembered by all who knew him.
