Trooper Mark Jeffrey Phebus, aged 23, was shot and killed on September 17, 1990, near Magnolia, Texas. He was off-duty and returning home after a weekend out of town when he encountered what he believed to be a vehicle crash. Trooper Phebus identified himself and asked the female involved to find a phone to call 911. The male subject involved in the incident shot Trooper Phebus after the female left the scene.
A capital murder warrant was issued for the male subject, but he committed
suicide before being arrested. Trooper Phebus had served with the Texas Highway Patrol for only seven months. He was survived by his parents.
The tragic incident occurred on FM 1774 in Montgomery County, and the weapon used was a handgun, specifically a .44 caliber. The suspect, who was involved in a domestic dispute with his wife, took his own life after the shooting. The case did not proceed to court due to the suspect's death.
Trooper Phebus was remembered as a dedicated officer who had just begun his career with the Texas Highway Patrol. His death was a significant loss to his family, colleagues, and the community.
