Houston, TX – A 16-year-old girl reported missing was safely recovered, and a 20-year-old man with open felony warrants was taken into custody following a tense hours-long SWAT standoff at a north Houston motel on Friday, according to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies responded to the Mustang Inn at 3800 Tidwell Road around 9 a.m. after receiving a tip that the missing teen might be at the location. Upon arrival, authorities found her inside a motel room with the wanted man, who was reportedly wanted on felony charges of aggravated assault and possession of a controlled substance.

According to officials, the man barricaded himself in the room, prompting a major police response that included SWAT officers, drones, a robot, and the deployment of tear gas. Although initial reports suggested a possible hostage situation, investigators later confirmed no hostages were involved.

Authorities said the suspect attempted to evade arrest by hiding in the motel’s attic. After tear gas was deployed around 4 p.m., he emerged, appearing disoriented and vomiting. He was then placed on a stretcher and transported to a local hospital as a precaution.

Houston Police confirmed that investigators are now exploring whether the incident may be linked to a potential human trafficking case.

During the conclusion of the standoff, a police K9 accidentally bit a deputy in the lower leg. The injured deputy was taken to the hospital and is expected to recover.

The suspect’s name has not yet been released, and the investigation remains ongoing.

Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity to local law enforcement.

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