Montgomery County Sheriff Wesley Doolittle personally intervened in a dangerous road rage incident Tuesday on FM 1488, confronting an armed suspect and preventing a potential tragedy. Video shows Doolittle calmly getting the man to surrender. The suspect, Vernon Cradier, now faces aggravated assault charges after threatening another driver with a gun.

On Tuesday, a potentially lethal road rage incident was averted thanks to the immediate action of Montgomery County Sheriff Wesley Doolittle on FM 1488. Surveillance footage and cellphone video documented the intense encounter between Sheriff Doolittle and an armed individual, who was subsequently identified as Vernon Cradier.
Investigators report that Cradier was allegedly brandishing a firearm while threatening another driver during the incident. Video evidence captures Sheriff Doolittle as he approaches the suspect, issuing a calm yet assertive command for the individual to lower his weapon.
Cradier ultimately acquiesced, yielding at the location without any additional conflict. Authorities have confirmed that the 45-year-old suspect is now facing charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Officials commended the sheriff's swift action in deescalating the situation, noting that it could have concluded with far more severe consequences had it not been for the prompt response.
The event occurred on the bustling FM 1488, a major thoroughfare in Montgomery County. Officials emphasize that this incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers that can arise from road rage confrontations.
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Main Street Market Conroe will hold its final market Feb. 7 at 301 N. Thompson St., ending a nearly five-year run that supported more than 100 small businesses in downtown Conroe.
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This opinion piece challenges the January 14, 2026, Montgomery County Republican Party steering committee minutes for emphasizing factionalism over coalition-building. It disputes efforts to marginalize local Republican women's groups and critiques police rhetoric. Montgomery County Republicans should prioritize unity, transparency, and voter engagement when choosing new leaders.
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Montgomery County commissioners have approved moving forward on a $221 million extension of Old Conroe Road after the city of Conroe transferred the project to the county for $3.2 million. The 5.7-mile project will add a bridge over the West Fork of the San Jacinto River and Lake Creek to improve regional mobility.