A central Texas weatherman was shot twice by an unknown man in the parking lot of his television station, prompting a manhunt by state troopers early Wednesday.
Morning show meteorologist Patrick Crawford was shot twice in KCEN’s parking lot, while sitting in his car. The station called the news “devastating” and said it was not clear whether the shooter was affiliated with the station.
“We do not know who the shooter was or if he is connected in any way to KCEN or its employees,” KCEN reported in a story about the incident. “He is a loved member of the KCEN family and our thoughts and prayers go out to him, [his wife] Heather and their family.”
The station reported that the suspect is described as a man between 30 and 35 years old with a receding hairline, a black hooded jacket and dark jeans. The man fled on foot after shooting Crawford.
Late Wednesday night, the forecaster’s station, KCEN, reported that authorities had a “person of interest” in custody, but police would not say whether it was the shooter.
The weatherman was able to drive away to get help, flagging down a nearby construction worker who called first responders.
The station reported that Crawford is now being treated at Scott & White hospital in Temple, Texas. He has undergone surgery and his wife, also a KCEN employee, is with him.
The person police are questioning was reportedly “[holed] up in a house,” when he was taken into custody.
