Search underway for man involved in Mission standoff

Edward Vargas

The Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office is searching for a man following a standoff Wednesday in Mission that stemmed from a reported domestic dispute.

The sheriff’s office said Edward Vargas, 43, had an active felony warrant for criminal mischief and a protective order against him. With the investigation ongoing, the sheriff’s office said Vargas may face additional criminal charges.

At about 12:56 p.m. Wednesday, deputies were dispatched to the 7000 block of Mile 5 Road in Mission in response to a welfare check involving a 41-year-old woman who reported a domestic dispute with her boyfriend, identified as Vargas.

Upon arrival, the release noted deputies learned of Vargas’ warrant and protective order.

When deputies reached the residence, they found Vargas alone inside, with the release adding he refused to open the door and that he was armed with a knife. This prompted a barricaded incident, with deputies establishing a perimeter as additional units arrived on the scene, according to the release.

The sheriff’s office said deputies attempted to communicate with Vargas through a window during the standoff.

“A Taser was deployed, but it was ineffective after Vargas’s girlfriend intervened by striking the device with her hand,” the release stated. “When deputies eventually entered the residence, they were unable to locate Vargas.”

The woman, who the sheriff’s office noted is not the person listed on the protective order, was arrested for interference with public duties.

“A drone search was conducted in a brush field behind the residence to find Vargas, but he was not located,” the release stated. “The scene was cleared without further incident, and no injuries were reported.”

The sheriff’s office is urging anyone with information regarding Vargas’ whereabouts to contact (956) 383-9114. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to the Hidalgo County Crime Stoppers at (956) 668-8477.

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