On March 12, 2025, deputies from the Van Zandt County Sheriff's Office responded to a reported burglary in the Precinct Two area.
Deputies M. Faulkner and C. Banda took a report of stolen items from a residence. After working with the homeowner, Deputy Faulkner suspected the burglars might return to steal additional property.
Later that day, the victim called 911 again, reporting that the suspects had returned. The victim and an acquaintance attempted to detain the suspects until law enforcement arrived. One suspect fled on foot while others left in a vehicle.
Deputies Faulkner and Banda quickly located and stopped the vehicle nearby, arresting Gaston Mathews of Larue, Texas, for burglary of a habitation, a second-degree felony, and Bailey Hefley of Mabank, Texas, for possession of marijuana, a class B misdemeanor.
Through further investigation, deputies identified Jessy Pierce of Eustace, Texas, as the suspect who fled on foot. A warrant was issued for Pierce for burglary of a habitation, and authorities confirmed he is also wanted on multiple other charges in Van Zandt and surrounding counties.
Anyone with information about Pierce’s location is urged to contact 911 and avoid attempting to detain him.
“This case highlights the dedication of Deputies Faulkner and Banda in keeping Van Zandt County safe,” said Sheriff Steve Bridger.
The investigation remains ongoing.
