A manhunt in San Marcos concluded with the apprehension of one of Texas’ most wanted fugitives, prompting authorities to issue a shelter-in-place order for local residents on Monday.
The operation ended successfully with the arrest of Dejon Darnell Holland, who had previously made Texas Department of Public Safety’s list of top ten fugitives.
A resident on Harper Drive, who chose to remain anonymous, described the chaotic scene as law enforcement surrounded her neighborhood. “The helicopters were flying overhead, and it was just a crazy scene with more police cars arriving and surrounding the house,” she recalled.
U.S. Marshals, along with San Marcos SWAT and Austin Police Air and K-9 units, descended upon the area while urging nearby residents to stay indoors. “They informed us that we needed to go inside as they anticipated the possibility of a shootout,” the woman added.
While some neighbors observed the unfolding situation from their windows, others monitored updates via social media. Miguel G., who has family living on Harper Drive, expressed concern for their safety. “I kept refreshing my Facebook feed for updates,” he said, relieved that his parents were unharmed.
As the situation developed, official communications included a shelter-in-place directive and emergency alerts warning residents of an armed suspect on the loose. Shortly before 7:00 p.m., law enforcement announced that the suspect had been taken into custody.
“I’m relieved he’s in custody, and I’m grateful there were no incidents,” Miguel G. remarked, acknowledging the fears that can accompany such tense situations.
Holland, 27, was arrested on July 20 after being placed on the Texas DPS’s ten most wanted list. His criminal history includes a conviction for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and possession of a controlled substance. Court documents from Bexar County indicate that in 2020, Holland assaulted a woman while brandishing a knife and threatened to shoot up her apartment. Following a probation violation, he was sentenced to prison.
Released on parole in May 2025 with an ankle monitor, Holland allegedly cut off the device four months later, leading to a warrant for his arrest. He now faces charges of violating parole, evading arrest in a vehicle, and reckless driving while being held at the Hays County Jail.
