On April 22, 2021, Deputy Alexander Gwosdz passed away from complications of COVID-19. Deputy Gwosdz joined our agency in 2012 as a detention officer in the Harris County Jail. Two years later, he took a leap in fulfilling his dreams of becoming a peace officer by graduating from our training academy. He served as a patrol deputy in northwest Harris County, patrolling the very neighborhoods where he grew up and lived. His Patrol District 5 teammates described their relationship as a close-knit family and brotherhood.

Deputy Gwosdz was also a member of our High-Water Rescue Team. These critical team members respond to rescue calls during flooding events and have completed rigorous swift water training. In 2017, during Hurricane Harvey, Deputy Gwosdz was in our communities on a high-water rescue vehicle. For those of us who lived through it, we’ll never forget Hurricane Harvey’s destruction and devastation. He was there for his neighbors and teammates through it all.

He knew early on he wanted to earn the badge and wear this uniform. His father, Deputy Chris Gwosdz retired from the Sheriff’s Office after 34 years of service.

Deputy Gwosdz was looking forward to dedicating his life to protecting and serving our communities. We remember a great man who cherished and loved his family, friends, and this profession. Deputy Gwosdz is the 51st member of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office to die in the line of duty.