Round Rock Police: Hutchinson killed with own weapon

Travis County Sheriff's Office Sgt. Craig Hutchinson was given a final farewell on Tuesday with full police honors. The deputy was killed last week after calling for backup. He reported there were quote "prowlers" in his backyard.

A day after the funeral, with Travis County Sheriff Greg Hamilton standing by in silence, Round Rock Police Chief Allen Banks updated the press on the investigation into Hutchinson's death. "Since the early morning hours of Monday, July 25th, the Round Rock Police Department and several other agencies have worked around the clock to determine the details leading up to the death of Sgt. Hutchinson," Banks said.

In addition to the 26 detectives they have working the case, the Travis County Sheriff's Office, APD, DPS, Texas Rangers, the FBI, U.S. Marshals, the Lone Star Fugitive Task Force and others have been there every step of the way. "We have processed more than 150 pieces of evidence. We've canvassed 233 homes in the neighborhood and followed up or investigated 117 tips with supporting agencies," Banks said.

Then Banks dropped a bombshell.

"We are still gathering facts in this case to determine what led to Sgt. Hutchinson's death...including the possibilities of homocide or that it was self-inflicted. Analysis of the projectile recovered indicates that the projectile came from Sgt. Hutchinson's weapon," he said.

After urging the public to call if they have any information in the case, Banks and Sheriff Hamilton left without taking any questions or explaining any working theories. Whether "self-inflicted" means "accidental" or "suicide"...Round Rock Police say everything is on the table at the moment.

Banks also said they don't have any suspects. 

So the question is...what is the evidence that prowlers were there?

Following Hutchinson's death, neighbor Kristen Pillow told FOX 7 what she heard.

"There was a thump and my dog started barking...so I don't know if that's...you know, I don't know what that was now if that was the gunshot or if it was them banging up against the fence," Pillow said.

Round Rock Police wouldn't say whether they do or don't have forensic or other physical evidence that prowlers were there. Chief Banks also said digital surveillance from houses and businesses is also under review. He reminded everyone this is a very active and open investigation. 

If you have any information call the police tip line at 512-671-2767

To read Police Chief Allen Banks statement on death investigation of Sgt. Craig Hutchinson, click here.