A New Hampshire native working as a police officer in Texas was killed in the line of duty over the weekend.
The Copperas Cove Police Department said they are investigating a police shooting that occurred on Saturday, resulting in the death of 27-year-old Officer Elijah Garretson. They said the suspect was later located and after a lengthy negotiation, killed himself.
According to a Facebook post from New Hampshire State Police, Garretson was a native of New Hampshire.
“During this difficult time, our thoughts are with his loved ones, colleagues at the Copperas Cove Police Department, and all those affected by this tragedy,” New Hampshire State Police said in their post. “He will never be forgotten.”
Few details about Garretson’s killing have been released. The Texas Rangers are now investigating the shooting.
“As we begin to navigate this incredibly difficult time, we ask for understanding and patience as our department, Officer Garretson’s family, and our law enforcement family grieve this tremendous loss. Out of respect for all those affected and the ongoing investigation, no further information is being released at this time,” the Copperas Cove Police Department said in a statement released Sunday. “We ask the community to keep Officer Garretson’s loved ones and our department in their thoughts and prayers.”
In a second Facebook post on Sunday, Copperas Cove police said they have parked Garretson’s patrol cruiser in front of their police station for those who wish to stop by and pay their respects.
“We appreciate the outpouring of support,” they said.
Republican Texas State Sen. Pete Flores, whose district includes Copperas Cove, issued a statement Sunday offering his condolences in the wake of Garretson’s death.
“This officer placed his life in harm’s way trying to protect public safety and paid the ultimate price. This loss is a tragic reminder of the courageous sacrifice that our law enforcment officers face every day.”
Flores said Garretson was shot while attempting to apprehend a fugitive who was wanted for engaging in organized criminal activity and failure to appear in court. During an ensuing scuffle with Garretson and two other officers during the attempted arrest, he said the fugitive shot Garretson and fled the scene. Garretson was taken to a nearby hospital, where he later died.
The fugitive was located and shot himself as he attempted to flee, dying at the scene, Flores said. Two pistols were reportedly found in his possession.