HCSO identifies Sgt. Watson as off-duty MP killed in Pearland motorcycle crash

A Harris County Sheriff’s Office sergeant on leave was killed in a crash Saturday afternoon at Pearland, officials said. The incident occurred around 1:15 p.m. near Shadow Creek Parkway and Kinsley Drive.

HCSO identified Sgt. Bruce Watson, a 20-year veteran of the ministry who had just completed an off-duty 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 an accident with an SUV. The driver pulled over after the crash and showed no signs of drugs or intoxication, according to the Pearland Police Department.

Investigators said it appeared to be an accident, while they were still investigating how the crash happened.

Right now, investigators don’t know who is at fault.

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

Watson, 51, was assigned to the Office of Patrol Support Services, working the night shift at the emergency dispatch center. He entered the sheriff’s office in March 2000 and previously served as a detention sergeant in the Harris County Jail, a field training officer on patrol and an instructor at the training academy. He was also a veteran of the United States Army.

Watson is survived by his wife, an officer with the Houston Police Department, and three adult children, two daughters and a son. Watson’s funeral arrangements are pending.

The Pearland Police Department is working on the scene.