The Greenville Police Department (GPD) in Texas lost its first officer in the line of duty in more than a century Monday night.
Officer Cooper Dawson, 27, was ambushed and fatally shot while pursuing a suspect following a traffic stop, the department wrote in a press release. Dawson managed to return fire, wounding the suspect before being airlifted to a hospital where he died.
“Both Officer Dawson and the suspect were transported to a local hospital. Officer Dawson was later airlifted to a larger area hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. Tragically, this marks the first Line of Duty death for the Greenville Police Department in over 100 years,” GPD wrote. (RELATED: ‘Devastated’: DC Officer Fatally Shot While Trying To Retrieve Gun, Union Says)
Witnesses told CBS News Texas they heard multiple gunshots and police yelling “get down” during the confrontation. Police identified the suspect as Christian Robert Sparger, 25, who remains in critical condition, according to the outlet.
“We are heartbroken over the loss of Officer Cooper Dawson, who selflessly put his life on the line to serve and protect our community,” Greenville Police Chief Chris Smith said in the press release. “We ask that you keep Officer Dawson’s family, our department, and the Greenville community in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.”
“Cecilia & I are saddened by the loss of Officer Cooper Dawson. Officer Dawson made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting his community in Greenville. Please join us in prayer for his family, loved ones, & the Greenville Police Department during this devastating time,” Republican Texas Gov. Greg Abbott tweeted.
Cecilia & I are saddened by the loss of Officer Cooper Dawson.
Officer Dawson made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting his community in Greenville.
Please join us in prayer for his family, loved ones, & the Greenville Police Department during this devastating time.
— Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) November 26, 2024
The GPD will hold a procession for their fallen “hometown hero” Wednesday morning, the department wrote on social media.
Dawson previously served with the Garland Police Department and was a military veteran who served in the National Guard, the outlet reported. He was also a member of SWAT team and an instructor for fellow officers. Dawson is survived by his wife and children.
This article was originally published at dailycaller.com
