AUSTIN COUNTY — Austin County Sheriff Jack Brandes stated in a press release: “On the 25th anniversary of September 11, we remember the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice and those who continue to put themselves in harm’s way to serve and protect others.
Today was also a special day for the Austin County Sheriff’s Office as Deputy Alyssa Lopez was honored with the Star of Texas Award by Governor Greg Abbott for the serious line of duty injuries she sustained on April 24, 2026.
Deputy Lopez was conducting a traffic stop when the driver fled and struck her with the vehicle, causing serious injuries and beginning a long road to recovery. What started as a routine traffic stop quickly became a life threatening situation for one of our deputies who was simply doing her job and serving the citizens of Austin County.
Today (September 11), Depu - ty Lopez was surrounded by the people who have stood beside her throughout her recovery, including her family, friends, fellow Austin County Sheriff's Office deputies and employees, the Sealy Police Department, and members of oth er law enforcement agencies who responded and supported her following the incident.
The Star of Texas Award is a well deserved recognition of Alyssa’s courage, dedication, and commitment to serving others.
On behalf of the Austin Coun- ty Sheriff's Office, I am proud of Deputy Lopez and grateful for everyone who has supported her and her family throughout this journey.
Congratulations, Alyssa, on receiving this well deserved honor.”
